Man Utd youngster could make club history after Ruben Amorim's show of faith
Godwill Kukonki has been in and amongst the Manchester United first team and has remained with the squad ahead of Thursday's Europa League clash - where he could make history
by Samuel Meade · The MirrorGodwill Kukonki could become the youngest Manchester United defender ever as he continues to impress Ruben Amorim.
The 16-year-old has become a major figure in the club's youth teams, which has put him on the radar of the new manager. On Sunday he travelled with the team to take on Ipswich and Thursday's clash with Bodo/Glimt presents another possible opportunity for him.
Amorim is still getting to grips with his squad and is set to rotate in the opening weeks as he gauges who best suits the 3-4-3 system he's bought in. Kukonki has been afforded the chance to train with the first team at Carrington.
He was left out of the U19s squad for the first leg of a UEFA Youth League qualifier against AZ Alkmaar this week so that he could stay in Manchester and train with Amorim’s squad - and history beckons for Kukonki if he can get onto the pitch.
No defender in the history of the Manchester outfit has debuted before their 18th birthday. Kukonki could smash that record if he is picked with Amorim showing throughout his managerial career that he will back young players.
Kukonki was given a chance to shine in the final 10 minutes against Forest Green Rovers for the Under-21s in October. Despite his tender age, the youngster has been showing signs of the technical and physical prowess needed for senior football. His left-footed skills have made him a valuable asset, especially as he can play both centre-back and left-back positions
Kukonki's physical stature and his impressive height is expected to aid him as he strives for a spot in the first team, having climbed through the youth ranks in double quick time. United's defensive options have by no means nailed down their spots this term with the likes of Matthijs de Ligt yet to hit top gear, which could open the door for the teenage star.
Kobbie Mainoo proved last season how quickly academy prospects can become crucial figures in the first team. He made his first start in November and by the end of the campaign was scoring in the FA Cup final and representing England at the Euros.
Amorim helped unearth a number of young players during his time at Sporting, some of whom are now on United's radar. The club have a long and proud history of using their academy and Kukonki could become its latest graduate.
Join our new WhatsApp community and receive your daily dose of Mirror Football content. We also treat our community members to special offers, promotions, and adverts from us and our partners. If you don't like our community, you can check out any time you like. If you're curious, you can read our Privacy Notice.
This article contains affiliate links, we will receive a commission on any sales we generate from it. Learn more
Sky Sports deal
Sky Sports launches discounted Premier League package
£46 (was £56)
Sky has slashed the price of its Sky Sports, Sky Stream, Sky TV and Netflix bundle in an unbeatable new deal that saves £240 and includes 1,400 live matches across the Premier League, EFL and more.