Manchester United’s U21 side were well beaten 5-2 this week by League One Barnsley, but there were still positives to take out of the hammering.
Travis Binnion will have been frustrated as his Manchester United team capitulated, conceding three in the last 30 minutes to throw away what looked like an excellent performance.
However, despite the loss, one positive was Shea Lacey. Starting on the right wing, Lacey showed excellent physicality for United as he also provided a top-class assist.
Another big performance was from right-back Yuel Helafu, who continues to step through the ranks with ease.
But there was another who has shown serious improvement this season.
Chido Obi is improving his all-around game for Manchester United
When Manchester United signed Chido Obi from Arsenal, there was plenty of excitement, and he quickly began breaking all sorts of goal records for the U18s and U21s.
Despite his goals, Obi was one-dimensional, having been able to dominate physically at the youth level, meaning he wasn’t being challenged.
Binnion explained Obi had a long way to go, as the 17-year-old dropped back to the U21 side this season to develop his game. being forced to work on other qualities.
Well, against Barnsley, this was seen clearly as Obi was challenged physically, but used his work rate, composure, and strength to score and assist against the senior side.
Obi will learn a lot from games like this, and the fact that he is coming out with contributions and impressive performances proves that his development is real, as he has added so much to his game already this season.
Being able to link up play, be a target man, and still having that in behind quality and freakishly reliable finishing makes Obi a very well-rounded number nine at the age of just 17, having all the raw skills to kick on and become a proper number nine.
Chido Obi could be set for big second half of the season at Manchester United
Despite not featuring in a United matchday squad this season, Obi still has a massive future, and it is important to remember that most strikers don’t become first-team players until later in their careers.
However, turning 18 this year, Obi could be set for a big second half of the season, with his development pointing toward first-team football either at United or on loan.
But Joshua Zirkzee potentially heading on loan could benefit Obi, as without a signing, it would be the young Dane who takes his place in the squad as Benjamin Sesko’s back-up.
It is therefore important that Obi keeps faith at United and keeps working; he is getting his rewards.
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