Manchester United have boosted their academy talent by signing up 15-year-old Republic of Ireland defender Lee O’Connor. O’Connor was last month named as the U-15 Ireland player of the year. O’Connor will be joining up with the United U-18s and he will be one of the youngest in the group. This shows the high expectations the Manchester United academy has on him. The teenager agreed a three year contract with United and will join the club in the summer when the transfer window opens up again.

Already comparisons have started between O’Connor and John O’Shea who was with United for over a decade. O’Shea was utilized effectively by Sir Alex in various positions in many title winning campaigns for Manchester United. Although, O’Shea was never able to earn a starting place, he became a fan favourite at Old Trafford for his willingness to play anywhere on the field. The rise of youngsters like Rashford and Fosu-Mensah have increased the attractiveness of Manchester United for many youngsters around Europe. Even O’Connor quoted Rashford’s rise in an interview about his move to Manchester United.