Olosunde looks to Valencia for inspiration
MATTHEW Olosunde enjoyed a superb end to last season at United, travelling with the first-team squad twice and almost making the bench.
After a steady start to his Old Trafford career, Olosunde developed strongly in Nicky Butt’s reserves team over the last campaign, impressing fans with his displays at right-back.
And now the teenager has revealed he is looking to Antonio Valencia for inspiration as he tries to kick-on again next season.
The United States youth international said: “He is a real inspiration. Bombing forward but also being great defensively. I really look up to him. When I watch him play, I just think I appreciate he’s a great player and a great marking point to reach for. He’s a big guy and so strong.”
Olosunde officially completed his move to United on January 29 last year but his arrival was announced by the club in March after he received international clearance.
The versatile player arrived after a spell with New York Red Bulls and has the athleticism and agility which suggests he is at least physically prepared for first-team football.
The 19-year-old added: “I’m very happy with how the season has gone Just travelling with the first team was a big thing for me.
“It’s a lot different when you are actually with them. You just think ‘wow’!
“I feel really comfortable at rightback and have done pretty well. I feel like I know my surroundings and have my bearings so I feel good when I’m out with the players on the pitch.”
Standing at 6ft 1ins, Olosunde started his career as a right winger before developing into a defender.