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Jose Mourinho praises Manchester United youngster Tahith Chong for 'beautiful' play vs Club America

Chong in action against Club America: Getty Images for International Champions Cup
Chong in action against Club America: Getty Images for International Champions Cup

Jose Mourinho has praised Manchester United youngster Tahith Chong for his "beautiful" impact to help the Red Devils earn a 1-1 draw against Club America.

Mourinho expected Club America to put his new-look Manchester United squad through their paces - and his prediction appeared to be realised in the 1-1 friendly.

Missing star talents Paul Pogba and Alexis Sanchez, the opening match of a pre-season US tour looked like it might end in defeat for the Reds in Arizona until Juan Mata volleyed to equalise in the 78th minute following a goalmouth scramble.

Mourinho described the match as a "good training session", and was pleased with Chong's impact after the 18-year-old's cross eventually led to Mata's leveller.

"Tahith was good," Jose said. "He came with the intention to show himself and in a moment when we had no strikers on the pitch, after Anthony Martial had left, we needed people to create and have some initiative, which he did.

"The action for the cross which led to the goal was beautiful. He was enthusiastic and he had the confidence to play.

"Of course, physically he has limitations and when he has one more touch, and that body contact, he loses for everyone.

"But when he makes the ball move and when he attacks people one against one he has quality. He is a good kid."

Mata, who was named man of the match, said: "It is very good news for the club and especially the Academy that we have so many kids with us.

"I think they are having a great experience by training with us and the manager, seeing what Manchester United represents around the world and I think the future is bright for Manchester United with these Academy players.”

Club legend Bryan Robson added: "It is a nice introduction for these young boys.

(Getty Images for International Champions Cup)
(Getty Images for International Champions Cup)

"I thought Chong looked really bright and sharp about his game when he came on. He put a great ball in when Juan scored.

"There were some nice touches, some nice speed and some good energy levels when he came on. He impressed when he came on the pitch."