Manchester United have an unsung hero to thank for sensational Chido Obi-Martin signing

"Well done, Chido," shouted Adam Lawrence following Chido Obi-Martin's equaliser against Chelsea in the FA Youth Cup fifth round. Obi-Martin latched onto a ball forward by Jaydan Kamason and the young forward made the finish look straightforward - but it wasn't as simple as it looked.

The best goalscorers make finding the back of the net look easy and Obi-Martin has enjoyed an exceptional first few months at United, so it was no surprise to see him equalise in style.

Under-18 boss Lawrence showed his appreciation for Obi-Martin, who did brilliantly to make the most of Kamason's pass, and head of the academy Nick Cox smiled in the stands.

It's understood Cox and head of academy recruitment Luke Fedorenko were responsible for the deal to sign Obi-Martin from Arsenal in the summer, and Cox will take particular pride from his performances.

Alejandro Garnacho was brought to Manchester by Cox and the academy chief might have signed another future first-team star. Garnacho was the talisman for the Under-18 side that won the Youth Cup in 2022 and Obi-Martin has the quality to fire United to another triumph in the competition.

Ruben Amorim was asked about Obi-Martin at his press conference last week, which highlights the interest in the youngster, and he could be knocking on the first-team's door this season.

Rasmus Hojlund and Joshua Zirkzee have scored just 12 goals between them in all competitions, while Obi-Martin's equalising goal against Chelsea moved him to double digits for the campaign.

Obi-Martin is obviously competing in academy fixtures but he is becoming increasingly hard to ignore. His move to United was described as a "significant coup" in the summer, and Cox will feel he has lured another young talent who has a