Manchester United defender Jack Kingdon has been spotted in first-team training ahead of the club’s crucial Premier League clash against Ipswich.
The Red Devils travel to Portman Road on Sunday in what is Ruben Amorim’s first test since he was appointed as the permanent replacement to Erik ten Hag. There has been a lot of speculation not just about the formation the 39-year-old will opt for, but the personnel too.
Several young players were involved in Amorim’s first training session at the beginning of the week, but Kingdon has remained involved since the return of several senior players from international duty. His inclusion on Friday could point to him being placed in the matchday squad this weekend.
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Harry Maguire and Lisandro Martinez have both been sidelined recently with muscle injuries and Victor Lindelof appeared to pick up a hamstring injury in Sweden’s recent game against Slovakia, so the Red Devils are short on numbers at the back.
Kingdon joined United from Morecambe three years ago and is highly regarded by academy staff at the club. He seems to have impressed new boss Amorim in the little time they’ve spent together on the training pitch which can only be a good sign for his future chances.
The 18-year-old was born in Bolton but represents Scotland at youth level qualifying through his father. He started his playing career at grassroots level in Greater Manchester before signing for the Shrimps. He notably made an appearance for their under-18 squad aged 14 which proves the potential he has.
His pace and ability to read the game well could provide a fresh option for United who have often been stuck with the slow moving veteran Jonny Evans for backup. While the Northern Irishman offers experience, Kingdon could be a breath of fresh air especially if Amorim deploys a back three.
Kingdon stands at 6ft 1in and has a very athletic background, previously playing Rugby and winning sprinting gold medals at the Bolton United Harriers championships, before giving everything up to focus on football. While he may not get on the pitch this weekend, he’s clearly a player Amorim rates.
