James McAtee was handed his first Championship start under the lights at Bramall Lane last night in United’s 2-1 win over Sunderland.
The 19 year-old is rated highly by Manchester City and Pep Guardiola, many fans and pundits have likened him to Phil Foden which is a huge compliment for the teenager.
McAtee tasted Championship football for the first time last night and he had an impactful performance, as he was fouled for the red card offence. The City loanee said after the game on SUTV:
“Of course there’s nerves but I think it’s always good to have nerves. It means you’re up for it and want to play well. I think the first 15 [minutes] I was getting used to the tempo and when I got into it I enjoyed it.”
He followed up with:
“I thought in the first 15 [minutes] I should’ve got on the ball more and I could’ve slid a few more people in instead of playing the safe pass but apart from that I got stuck in and got that man sent off. I did my part and worked hard.”
McAtee entered the most ground duels out of anybody else on the pitch in Wednesday nights victory with 13, winning 8 of those. It shows that not only does the youngster have great ability, he is also willing to do the hard yards and battle.
The City loanee remarked:
“It’s part of the job, it’s what you need to do, there’s no excuse not to do it.”
McAtee in the post game show on SUTV paid tribute to John Fleck who has been helping and guiding the 19 year-old in the right direction.
McAtee said:
“I think the main thing I’ve learnt from him is, he’s very humble. He’ll come and speak to me and come and give me advice. He won’t just shrug you off, it doesn’t matter who you are.”