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How Tuanzebe proved to Solskjaer he's ready for Man Utd first team

  /  autty

It has been a whirlwind few months for Axel Tuanzebe at Manchester United.

Sidelined through injury at the start of the year all that mattered to the young English centre back was getting back out onto the pitch, never mind playing for United.

In his three months out of action at the start of the year, the 21-year-old was back at Carrington regularly, working on his fitness while caretaker manager Ole Gunnar Solskjaer began his life in the dugout.

Little did he know the impact he'd eventually make on the Norwegian manager.

After a strong end to the season with Aston Villa, there were calls for Tuanzebe to be given a chance during the pre-season tour, and it is one which Solskjaer saw as a no-brainer.

United had just finished the season with their worst defensive record in over 40 years and Solskjaer was keen to mix things up at the back. Still, actions speak louder than words, and when Tuanzebe lined up for the opening friendly fixture against Perth Glory supporters truly began to believe.

Even after the arrival of Harry Maguire in the last week of the summer transfer window, the manager stuck by his man, and it finally seems like he has a trio of centre backs who he can trust.

When United lined up in a behind-closed-doors friendly against Sheffield United on Tuesday it was Phil Jones and Chris Smalling who started the game. Both have been model professionals during their time at United, but without a place in either matchday squad between them, it seems their roles will be reduced in the coming season.

Not only is Tuanzebe expected to get a chance when change is required in the starting XI but Solskjaer has also hinted the England youth international could play a part elsewhere on the pitch.

"We know he's going to be a big, big part of this club in the future," Solskjaer said ahead of facing Wolves. "He probably impressed me more than I expected. That's why he's on the bench. He can slot in midfield and right back as well, so he's able to play different positions."

Versatility might not be an attribute associated with many central defenders, but it is one which could prove priceless for Tuanzebe this season as he craves any involvement on the pitch.

United's participation in the Europa League, as well as a desire to avoid another humiliating early exit from the Carabao Cup, means Solskjaer will need to rotate in the coming weeks, and opportunity will arise for their homegrown defensive starlet.

Tuanzebe has already made a massive leap in his United career by making such a positive impression on the manager, now the challenge comes with maintaining those levels of consistency, and ensuring he can capitalise on any opportunity which comes his way.