WHIZZ-KID WILL CAN THRIVE IN CAULDRON

BRANDON WILLIAMS faces the biggest test of his career on Sunday with a trip to Manchester United’s arch-rivals Liverpool.

There is no environment more hostile for a United player, no tougher examination of a youngster’s character and mental strength, than the poisonous cauldron of Anfield.

Yet, given the assured way he has taken everything in his stride since making his debut earlier this season, Sunday’s occasion is likely to hold little fear for the 19-year-old left-back (with Ole Gunnar Solskjaer, above).

After Wednesday’s 1-0 FA Cup replay win over Wolves, the sixth time in seven games Williams has helped his side to a clean sheet, former United skipper Gary Neville tweeted his admiration.

He said: “Brandon has the look in his eye of someone that would eat his opponent’s nose to win the match. He can play football, too, which is always a bonus.” Match of the Day presenter and former England striker Gary Lineker was similarly effusive, tweeting: “The more I watch Brandon, the more I like what I see. Another exciting young English talent.”

Since making his debut as a halftime sub in a 1-1 EFL Cup draw at home to Rochdale, which United won on penalties, Williams has gone from strength to strength, usurping Luke Shaw (above) as first-choice left-back.

Reflecting on his rise to the firstteam, Williams said: “It’s a really proud thing for me and my family.

“In the position I play, you need that energy, and to be strong on the physical side of the game, to get up and down the pitch, and also to help defend and attack.

“Attacking is a big part of my game. I love driving forward and giving energy to the team.”

With such talent, self-belief and a fearless attitude, Williams has every chance of being United’s – and potentially England’s – first-choice left-back for the next decade.