Manchester United starlet Kobbie Mainoo labelled it “a dream come true” as his first league goal for the club sealed a memorable win over Wolves.
The 18-year-old academy graduate was brought on with just four minutes of normal time remaining and with his side 3-2 up.
But a late strike from Pedro Neto looked to have undone all of United’s hard work before Mainoo stepped up with a sublime solo effort seven minutes into stoppage time.
He slalomed past the Wolves defence and slotted home from long range in what was his first-ever Premier League goal for the club.
The Stockport-born midfielder admitted after the match that he “still hasn’t come down” from the elation.
A Dream Come True
Mainoo told TNT Sports post-match: “It’s a dream come true.
“It [Molineux] is a tough place to come.
“We had to get the win. I’ve still not come down from it.
“I still feel like I’m dreaming to be honest.
“To start playing in the Premier League for my boyhood club has been amazing.
“Now it’s about trying to win more games.”
On playing alongside Bruno Fernandes, the youngster added: “He is a good role model to look up to and to share the pitch with him is crazy.”
United were dominant for large sections of the match on Thursday and got off to a flyer thanks to a goal and assist from Rasmus Hojlund.
That first one set up Marcus Rashford on his first start since his recent disciplinary issues, marking his redemption arc.
And captain Fernandes said on Rashford repaying Erik ten Hag’s faith: “We all have a point to prove every time we come on the pitch.
“Not only on Marcus, but everyone else.
“But obviously the guys up front have to score.
“He is a special talent. He has been proving himself.
“We are not in the position we want to be and we have to work hard to get where we want to be.”
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However, Mainoo’s heroics proved vital for United in their hopes of securing European football this campaign.
Also, the 4-3 victory sees Ten Hag’s side jump up to seventh, one point off West Ham in sixth, with a game against the Hammers up next on Sunday.
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