Manager praises “natural goalscorer” after Man United loan deal confirmed

One Manchester United starlet has been praised for being a “natural goalscorer” after a loan deal was confirmed this week.

The Reds have played two pre-season fixture games so far this summer against Rangers and Rosenborg.

Those games included many Academy talent, although that will not be as prominent in the upcoming games during the United States tour.

Several young players have missed the opportunity to join Erik ten Hag’s squad in America for various reasons.

Some may be considered too inexperienced, while others are set to depart the club on loan to further their development elsewhere.

That second reason relates to 20-year-old striker Joe Hugill, who scored an excellent goal in the 2-0 win over Rangers.

His move to League One outfit Wigan Athletic has been confirmed this week, and their manager, Shaun Maloney, has been full of praise for the young goalscorer.

He told the Latics website: “I am delighted that we’ve managed to sign Joe. He’ll be a great addition to the group, and I am looking forward to working with him. 

“He is a hard-working number nine and has been a natural goal-scorer throughout his time at Manchester United. 

“He has a lot of strong attributes and I am really happy to have him here.”

Wigan sporting director Gregor Rioch was equally complimentary, saying: “We’re really pleased to have brought Joe to our club. I’d like to thank Manchester United for facilitating the move, and we’re looking forward to seeing how Joe performs during his time with us. 

“Joe is a talented young player who will bring a lot of energy and speed to our frontline.”

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