Ole Gunnar Solskjaer believes Manchester United have another Michael Carrick in their ranks after handing James Garner his debut against Crystal Palace.
The 17-year-old replaced Fred in the 89th minute of United's 3-1 win at Selhurst Park after Solskjaer's midfield was hit by an injury crisis last week.
And after watching Garner slide seamlessly into his side for the final few minutes of the Premier League clash, Solskjaer was quick to compare him to one of United's greatest midfielders of the modern era.
'I believe he's got the chance to have a great future,' Solskjaer said after watching his side continue their fine form with a victory in south London.
'Of course keep working, he knows we believe in him.
'We've got great faith in him as the next Michael Carrick. I know he's young, I know it's not fair on kids to compare to great players like Michael was, but he's in the same mold.'
Asked what aspect of Garner's game reminded him of Carrick, who is now part of his backroom staff, Solskjaer added: 'He can see the game, he plays simply passes, he plays through the lines, which I thought Scott McTominay today did really well.
'Some of the passing through the lines to Paul (Pogba) was excellent.'
Garner could get another opportunity when United welcome Southampton to Old Trafford on Saturday afternoon.
Zodcikmop
54
please give Chong chance to play
Mopakoptyz
37
Wait, can't believe I am hearing such beautiful academic youth news from MUFC again, is this means we could actually create a brilliant and loyal squad for the future.. MUFC