A compilation of Kobbie Mainoo's performance against Salford for Manchester United's Under 21s is going viral on social media.
The 18-year-old enjoyed an excellent pre-season with the Red Devils and looked set to feature for the first team this campaign.
Unfortunately, he suffered an ankle injury during a friendly against Real Madrid which has seen him sidelined for nearly three months.
The Englishman registered his first 90 minutes since returning from injury for the club's U21 side against Salford on Tuesday night, which ended in a 4-3 defeat.
Advert
Mainoo put on a dazzling display in the middle of the park, picking up two assists and demonstrating his quick feet and vision.
Fans rushed to social media to heap praise on the teenager, pleading that Ten Hag recall him to the senior side.
While many couldn't help but compare Mainoo's movement to former United midfielder Paul Pogba, who spent six years at Old Trafford.
Advert
Taking to Twitter, one fan wrote: "0:09 - 0:16 is Paul Pogba. Looks like a tidy little talent."
"No one can tell me this ain’t Pogba," another added.
"If you said to me this was Pogba I’d believe you," a third remarked.
While a fourth tweeted: "Don't remember an academy player of ours this good since Ravel Morrison.
Advert
"Sky is the limit for this kid. The technical brilliance he displays at just 18 yrs old is unfathomable. I pray to god he has an injury free career!"
It is unlikely that Mainoo will play a part for United's Carabao Cup clash against Newcastle on Wednesday, having only just returned from injury.
However, Erik ten Hag will undoubtedly be keeping a watchful eye on the youngster, after the likes of Bruno Fernandes, Mason Mount and Casemiro have all come under criticism for their performances this season.
SPORTbible are on WhatsApp! We've launched a dedicated news channel to send you the latest news, features and plenty more directly on WhatsApp and all you need to do to sign up is click through to our one-way broadcast channel here for 'SPORTbible News' to appear in the 'Updates' tab on your WhatsApp.
Topics: Erik Ten Hag, Football, Manchester United, Paul Pogba, Fan Reactions
Joe Adams