One part of Manchester United’s group of up-and-coming talent who has successfully worked their way up to senior action is Stockport-born Kobbie Mainoo.

The teenage sensation was given his first taste of Premier League football against Leicester City, where he replaced the cautioned Marcel Sabitzer. This, however, may be viewed as a precautionary measure for the January loanee.

Nonetheless, the 17-year-old would have been on top of the world with his cameo against Brendan Rodger’s struggling Leicester side.

Though it was short, his on-field demeanour would have been exactly what ten Hag was promised.

Though, this is not the first time Mainoo had been rubbing shoulders with the stars as he made his first-team debut at the beginning of the year in a Carabao Cup tie against Charlton.

Manchester United’s Head of Academy shared his thrilling feeling that Mainoo was thrown in the deep end with the big boys to earn his first domestic cap.

“[We are] always delighted when a young boy makes a debut, particularly when they start a game,” Cox told club media. “It’s very different coming off the bench than starting a game, so he’s had to earn that [against Charlton].”

Despite being overwhelmed with pride, Cox admitted there were still mountains to climb before the talented youngster could be considered a first-team regular.

“There’s a long way to go. I’m obviously really proud of him, really pleased for him, and for his family. He’s been with us since a very young age.” Cox added.

Comparisons have been made by those who follow football with Paul Pogba as a regular candidate, so it’s safe to say he’s in esteemed company.

There’s no guarantee he’ll be a consistent performer under ten Hag, but it seems that Mainoo feels at home in Manchester with him penning a new long-term deal recently.

Currently sitting behind Alejandro Garnacho and Zidane Iqbal in the pecking order, there are more chapters in Mainoo’s story to be unveiled, and hard work and determination will be at the forefront of everything.