Manchester United have turned to academy star Jack Kingdon in their bid for defensive cover ahead of their trip to Bournemouth on Saturday.
United have been hampered by injuries all season, but things are particularly bleak at the moment in defence. The club confirmed on Thursday night that Raphael Varane and Jonny Evans would be unavailable for the 5.30pm kick-off against Bournemouth.
They have joined fellow centre-backs Victor Lindelof and Lisandro Martinez in the treatment room, leaving United down to the bare bones. Harry Maguire partnered Willy Kambwala in the 2-2 draw against Liverpool on Sunday and the duo are set to continue against the Cherries due to a lack of viable alternatives.
Harry Amass, a 17-year-old left-back, and Habeeb Ogunneye, an 18-year-old right-back, made the substitutes bench against Liverpool. And the Manchester Evening News now reports that Kingdon has also been promoted from the academy to train with the first team.
Kingdon was signed in November 2020 for a six-figure fee after impressing during a two-week trial period. He has gone from strength to strength and has kicked on this year, making 21 appearances for the academy this season, including 13 starts for the United under-18s.
World Cup hero wants Man Utd move as doubts over Harry Maguire's future grow
After playing a variety of positions, the 6ft 1in player has settled at centre-back and is highly-regarded by United staff. Erik ten Hag will be hoping that Scotland youth international Kingdon is not required at Bournemouth, but his promotion is a significant moment in his career.
While there are major issues in defence, where Luke Shaw and Tyrell Malacia also remain out injured, there was better news in attack on Friday. Asked in his press conference if Scott McTominay and Marcus Rashford were fit, Ten Hag said: “Scott, I don't think so, we have a training today, so we have a day, and he will push, because he's so keen to be a part of it tomorrow, so it's very questionable. Rashford trained yesterday, so how he has recovered from it. We have another training today and then we will make a decision on it.”
Jack Kingdon has been promoted to first-team training (Lewis Storey/Getty Images)Kambwala will be hoping to continue his fine form against Bournemouth. The 19-year-old will make his seventh Premier League appearance following a stand-out showing against Liverpool which earned him serious plaudits.
“It's my job, it's my passion,” he said. “I know what I need to do on the pitch. I know I need to give everything from the first moment, to impress and to enjoy it. That's what I like to do. It's my passion. And I know, every time I have the opportunity to be on the pitch, I need to give everything to leave everything on the pitch.
“I'm very proud. Very grateful. Thanks, God. Thanks [to] the manager. Thanks, all the staff for the opportunity they gave to me. I know all the players who come through the Academy. I'm proud to represent this badge, this team and, hopefully, [there is] more to come together in the future.”
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
Read more similar news:
Comments:
comments powered by Disqus
