Ole hints at a Red Devils chance for ex-Cat Hugill
Manchester United boss Ole Gunnar Solskjaer has hinted that Joe Hugill could be in line for first-team opportunities at Old Trafford – having hailed the ex-Sunderland youngster as a ‘top striker’.
Hugill left the Academy of Light in the summer, penning a contract with the Red Devils after a six-figure fee was paid to Sunderland.
And the teenage striker has enjoyed a rapid rise since arriving in the North West, quickly establishing himself in the under-23 side despite being initially being signed for the club’s under18s.
Indeed, Hugill has netted 14 times in 17 games for both of the age group sides this season – including four goals in a comfortable win over Liverpool under-23s over the weekend.
Such form hasn’t gone unnoticed by Solskjaer, who has now hinted that firstteam opportunities may not be too far away for the young striker.
Speaking at a press conference today, the Manchester United boss was quizzed on high-profile Under-23 signing Amad Diallo – but was quick to point the focus back to 17-year-old Hugill.
“If we go from that game [vs Liverpool], I'd pick Joe Hugill,” he said.
“Four goals by Hugill, he's a top striker as well, we're looking forward to seeing his development.
“Amad gets a good start and why Joe didn't take the penalty himself to get five goals I'm going to ask him.”
Hugill caught the eye while playing for Sunderland’s Under-23 side last season and was linked with a host of Premier League clubs over the course of the summer.