Nemanja Matic believes that Anthony Elanga is the future of Manchester United after his goal secured a valuable draw in the first leg of the club's Champions League last-16 tie with Atletico Madrid.
Joao Felix had given the hosts the best possible start inside 10 minutes with a bullet header which gave David De Gea no chance.
Despite a largely underwhelming performance from United, the 19-year-old Swede came off the bench and gave his team-mates hope going into the second leg by coolly slotting the ball past Jan Oblak to leave the tie finely poised.
Speaking to MUTV post-match, Matic said: "For a very young player to come here and score against Atletico Madrid he will remember this moment forever for sure and he deserved that.
"He's working very hard, he's a very, very nice kid I have to say – very polite, respectful and I think he's the future of our club."
The goal marked what has been a whirlwind couple of days for Elanga.
On Sunday, the youngster was hit by an object thrown by Leeds supporters before scoring United's fourth goal to secure a thrilling win at Elland Road.
Manchester United return to action on Saturday when they host Watford in the Premier League.
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