Old Trafford youngster takes tips from Scotland hero

Under-17 European Championships

MANCHESTER UNITED wonder-kid Louis Jackson was given a pep talk by Scotland legend Darren Fletcher before the under-17s kick-off their European Championship finals today after playing in front of 70,000 fans at Old Trafford last week.

And the central defender admits he would love to have a similar career to the former Old Trafford hero who is now technical director at the club.

Scotland kick off Group D tonight in Israel against Portugal, who thrashed Finland 9-1 in their last game before the tournament. Highly-rated kid

Jackson has already made his mark at United – he became their youngest ever youth player when he played for their Under 23s at the age of 15. And now he’s hoping to catch the eye of new United boss Erik ten Hag.

Jackson said: “Darren Fletcher has been a big help for me. He’s a really nice guy and he makes a point of always talking to me. He’s always asking me if there is anything I need or any help he can give me.

“Just before I left to come out to Israel with Scotland he pulled me aside and had a quick chat and wished me all the best. He said he would be watching us. He had an amazing career with Manchester United and with Scotland. Any advice he can give me is a big help. He’s a man I look up to and he’s a great role model for the younger players like me.”

And the 16-year-old is hopeful the young Scots, who also play against Sweden and Denmark in their section, can get off to a good start in Lod against Portugal. He said: “This is a massive opportunity for me and the boys. We played really well as a team to qualify and we are hoping to get through the group.”