Will Osula’s secret Manchester United link revealed after Newcastle United wonder goal
Will Osula had Manchester United in the palm of his hands - but did you know about his secret connection to the Red Devils?
Will Osula came back to haunt Manchester United with a vengeance. What appeared to be a clunky run on the right flank soon turned into his defining moment at Newcastle United to date.
Once he controlled possession, the Red Devils’ resistance was at his mercy, with Osula cutting inside and whipping a vicious left-footed strike past the hapless Senne Lammens. It was Kylian Mbappe-esque.
St James’ Park erupted as the Dane - swiftly becoming an ace up Eddie Howe’s sleeve from the bench - went berserk. It was one of those “under the lights” nights where a sense of injustice can rally 50,000 Geordies to force a last-minute winner - and Osula provided the finishing touch.
Will Osula’s secret Manchester United link
As the dust settled on an enthralling Newcastle victory, images resurfaced from Man United’s official X account of a young Osula. While never on their books officially, a then 11-year-old travelled to England to compete in a Soccer Schools event.
Congratulations to 11-year-old William Osula from Denmark, winner of today's MU Soccer Schools World Skills Final. pic.twitter.com/v29MkclfK8
— Manchester United (@ManUtd) November 8, 2014
He won - and showcased his award alongside Red Devils great Bryan Robson at Old Trafford. Responses from his former coaches refer to Osula as a “mini Ronaldo” - he certainly showed shades of the Portuguese superstar last night.
Eddie Howe on Will Osula
Speaking post-match, Eddie Howe noted how Osula’s magic was no fluke as he practised that exact move the day before. He said: “There was a moment where I thought he was going to run out of grass and it’s going to go out of play. I think he does really well to keep it in.
“I’m not trying to be wise after the event, in that moment you back Will’s ability. That’s one of his biggest strengths, running with the ball, his pace. Will asked after training yesterday for 10 more balls. He wanted 10 more finishes and a carbon copy of the goal he scored today.
“He scored eight out of 10. That’s all credit to the player because he wanted it, he wanted to do more before he went in. I’m a great believer in ‘do the work, you get the reward’. I’m delighted for him personally.”