Godwill Kukonki spotted in Man Utd training, he’s got something that sets him apart

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Ruben Amorim is quite clearly a fan of Manchester United wonderkid Godwill Kukonki as the teenager is becoming a regular in first-team training.

Of all the talented young players currently at Carrington, it is the 16-year-old central defender who has caught Ruben Amorim’s eye.

Godwill Kukonki only signed his scholarship deal over the summer and made his U21 debut for Manchester United last month.

Kukonki was in first-team training from Amorim’s first session last week, and he made the matchday squad on Sunday against Ipswich.

Now, it looks as though he is set to feature in the group to head to Old Trafford on Thursday.

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Godwill Kukonki in Manchester United training

Wednesday saw the Manchester United squad be put through their paces by Amorim and his coaching staff at Carrington.

Much to the delight of fans, the group included Kukonki, as the teenager was pictured looking right at home along with the first-team squad.

Kukonki’s chances of being involved at least in the squad were boosted as Amorim confirmed both Harry Maguire and Leny Yoro would miss out along with Victor Lindelof and Jonny Evans seemingly missing training.

Formerly only an under-18 regular, Kukonki is the only youngster who Amorim has had in first-team training with even Harry Amass sent back to the U21s and U18s.

There is a fairly logical reason for this.

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Kukonki has one advantage over his United peers

While still so young, Kukonki is viewed as a possible history-maker for United, as he has over a year to make his debut and become the youngest defender to play for the club.

Not many 16-year-old centre-backs are brought into first-team training, never mind included in match-day squads and therefore there must be something very special about Kukonki.

While he is a superb footballer and defender, it is likely his physicality which has stood out to Amorim so quickly – with physical readiness a big factor in when academy players get to make the step up. We saw this as Erik ten Hag had doubts over Amass’ physicality.

However, at a reported height of 6ft 5in, Kukonki is more than ready and certainly stands out among his peers. This is one reason Chido Obi-Martin is tipped to step up quickly.