What Wayne Rooney said about 'incredible' youngster amid Manchester United transfer links

Wayne Rooney believes that Derby County youngster Malcolm Ebiowei has a "really bright future" ahead of himself amid reports linking him with a move to Manchester United.

According to a Italian journalist Fabrizio Romano, United, who will get their pre-season preparations underway in a fortnight's time, and Crystal Palace are 'leading the race' to sign the highly-rated 18-year-old. He burst onto the scene this season after Rams boss Rooney was left with no choice but to blood several youngsters into the first-team picture at Pride Park.

Derby, whose future remains in serious doubt as they search for a new owner, were relegated from the Championship this season after being handed a 21-point deduction. Despite dropping down to League One, several youngsters made names for themselves upon their graduation to the first-team, with Ebiowei, who plays predominantly as a right-winger, often catching the eye.

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Making 16 Championship appearances, the former Arsenal and Rangers academy star netted one goal and grabbed two assists. He also produced an array of eye-catching performances that earned regular praise from the Derby supporters and Rooney.

And it was after Derby's 1-1 draw with Coventry City in March when Rooney heaped the most praise on the youngster. He waxed lyrical about a wide range of his qualities, including his attitude.

"I thought he was excellent all game, the best player on the pitch," said Rooney. "It was one of the best performances I have seen from a young player, consistently for 90 minutes, in a long time.

"He deserved that because he has worked extremely hard. His attitude is incredible, he wants to learn and he is an