'It doesn't matter' - Manchester United youngsters sent promising Ruben Amorim incentive

Former Sporting Lisbon academy coach Fabio Roque has said age does not matter to Manchester United head coach Ruben Amorim when it comes to including players in his plans.

Amorim handed several youngsters their senior debuts during his time in charge at Sporting, including United transfer target Geovany Quenda.

The 17-year-old wing-back made his Sporting bow in August, marking the occasion with a goal in a 4-3 defeat to FC Porto in the Portuguese Super Cup. Quenda made a further 17 appearances under Amorim prior to him moving to Old Trafford earlier this month.

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Sporting are already anticipating a bid from United coming their way for Quenda, who blossomed in the right-sided wing-back role under Amorim's stewardship. And despite him only being 17, that small matter will not have weighted on Amorim's mind.

"He doesn't look for the age," Roque said, speaking to Sky Sports. "For him, it doesn't matter.

"He is worried about performance and the personality of the player. If they work hard and fit into his team, he gives them an opportunity."

Amorim is a fan of promoting from within, highlighted by how he wanted to bridge the connection between Sporting's first-team and their academy system.

Roque continued: "He was very important in that step for Geo. A lot of times, coaches say, 'oh, maybe he's not ready. It's a big jump'. With Ruben Amorim, things are different. That's why, for me, he is special.

"He was brave enough [to give him the chance]. He's a coach that gives a lot of confidence. These young players, a lot of time, they just need to