‘Keep pushing’: PL defender sends encouraging message to Willy Kambwala after second senior start

Willy Kambwala is rightfully receiving his plaudits after an impressive showing against then-Premier League leaders Liverpool on Sunday.

The Manchester United academy graduate, 19, made just his second start in the high-stakes clash as he was called upon again to deputise for his sidelined counterparts. 

Victor Lindelof and Lisandro Martinez had already been ruled out of action for a month at the beginning of last week before Raphael Varane and Jonny Evans were both forced off with injuries during the defeat at Stamford Bridge.

Therefore, only Harry Maguire and Kambwala were available to partner one another as United locked horns with their in-form rivals. 

Kambwala put in a spirited shift in what came as just his second senior start for the club, the first being away to West Ham United in December 2023. He looked mature beyond his years when locking horns with the Merseyside outfit’s relentless attackers with a performance that would have certainly moved him up in Erik ten Hag’s estimations.

Kambwala earns recognition from PL stars

Luton Town forward Andros Townsend singled out the young Frenchman for praise on Monday evening, and his fellow Hatter – and former Red – Teden Mengi also sent a rallying message; he replied to Kambwala’s Instagram post saying: “So proud mon frere. Keep pushing!!”