LIVE
...

Follow us on

News

Rio Ferdinand praises ‘humble’ United youngster Anthony Elanga

Add as preferred source on Google

Rio Ferdinand has praised Manchester United winger Anthony Elanga for the impact and contributions he is making in Ralf Rangnick’s side.

The Swedish under-21 international came off the bench to score United’s fourth and final goal in the 4-2 win against Leeds on Sunday.

It was Elanga’s second Premier League goal of the season following his header against Brentford last month.

FBL-ENG-PR-LEEDS-MAN UTD
Photo by PAUL ELLIS/AFP via Getty Images

Speaking on the latest FIVE podcast, Ferdinand said: “He’s [Elanga] hungry, he’s humble as a young player coming into the team and he’s just champing at the bit.

“I like the fact that he’s impacted games. Three away goals which is a big thing scoring away from home and he’s come on and contributed.

“I think that’s all you want as a young player to come on and not be anonymous, have an impact and he’s done that.

“I think he’s a really good example to all young players coming through – you bide your time, you get in and you’ve got to make your mark when you get in there. He’s doing well.”

Leeds United v Manchester United - Premier League
Photo by Shaun Botterill/Getty Images

The 19-year-old has spoken to the club’s website about the “amazing experience” of playing against our fierce rivals at Elland Road.

Elanga said: “We all know what they’re about and what it means to the club. To score and to celebrate with the whole team showed that togetherness and spirit.

“Obviously, we had a win before that game [against Brighton] and to get another win was really good to build momentum and we’ve got to keep that going now.”

All three of Elanga’s three top-flight goals have come away from home, but after slotting the ball through Illan Meslier’s legs and into the back of the net, our number 36 couldn’t wait to celebrate with the United fans.

FBL-ENG-PR-LEEDS-MAN UTD
Photo by PAUL ELLIS/AFP via Getty Images

It’s yet another massive moment in the youngster’s fledging career, but our flying winger is craving more of those moments.

“I felt amazing when I scored and hearing them chanting my song,” Elanga said.

“That made it very special.

“I live for moments like this, I want to experience more, score more goals and just keep going.”