Lindelof impressed by our youngsters' maturity
Manchester United defender Victor Lindelof has spoken enthusiastically about the futures of Willy Kambwala and Kobbie Mainoo, in our latest big player interview.
The 29-year-old Sweden international is one of the Reds’ most experienced leaders and the responsibility of helping young team-mates is one he takes seriously.
A top professional and team player, Lindelof is ready to share his knowledge and he has been encouraged by the latest batch of Academy products who have broken into the seniors this season.
Centre-back Kambwala is somebody Victor has worked closely with and he is happy to report the youngster has the right personality to tackle the next chapter in his fledgling career.
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“Obviously you reach this level now, but when you get to this level, then this is when the real hard work begins. He's a very, very good guy and he's got the right mentality. So I'm not really worried about that. I think he's got a great future ahead of him.”
“He’s a fantastic player and a very, very smart young player,” explains the Swede. “You know, he's got the right mentality and the same there - I think the best thing for him is just stay calm and, you know, listen to obviously the older players and try to learn as much as possible and pick up a few things. But then as well, just be yourself and express yourself on the pitch.
“Obviously you reach this level now, but when you get to this level, then this is when the real hard work begins. He's a very, very good guy and he's got the right mentality. So I'm not really worried about that.”
“That's the most important thing. And that's why he's at this stage as well, because he's done that throughout his career so far, and I think it's super important as well to just let him develop naturally.
“Obviously, he's very, very young, but if he can just keep doing the things he's doing on the pitch right now, I think he's going to be a fantastic, fantastic player in the future as well.”
“He's very mature for his age, in his decision making, when to speed up the game, when to slow down and when to take on a player or not. So he’s very, very, very smart and sort of experienced for a youngster.”
Asked if he understands why fans are excited about Mainoo, Lindelof says: “Yeah, most definitely.
“He’s been great in every game he's played in and he's very mature for his age as well, in his decision making on the pitch, when to speed up the game, when to slow down and when to take on a player or not. So he’s very, very, very smart and sort of experienced for a youngster.”
Watch 'Victor Lindelof | Team Player' for more from the Swede.