Man United promote gifted centre-half to first-team set-up amid defensive injury crisis

Manchester United youngster Jack Kingdon has been promoted to first-team training ahead of Saturday's game against Bournemouth in the Premier League.

It was confirmed on Thursday night that Raphael Varane and Jonny Evans would be unavailable for this weekend's clash at the Vitality Stadium due to muscle injuries. Lisandro Martinez and Victor Lindelof are sidelined and Harry Maguire and Willy Kambwala are the only fit centre-backs available, which means Kingdon could make the squad for Bournemouth.

The Manchester Evening News understands Kingdon will take part in training on Friday and that opportunity represents a significant milestone for the youngster.

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The 18-year-old has gone from strength to strength and he's started 13 games in the league for United's Under-18s, who are on course to win the title after an excellent campaign. Kingdon, whose natural position is centre-back, has made 21 appearances in total for the academy this season and he's delivered a string of impressive displays in defence.

The youngster, who was born in Bolton, started his career with Greater Manchester grassroots club FC Strikerz Avengers before joining Morecambe at Under-12 level.

Kingdon notably made an appearance for Morecambe's Under-18s when his age group was Under-14 level. United eventually signed the youngster for a six-figure sum in November 2020, following a successful two-week trial period at the club.

The defender played multiple positions at grassroots level, including as a striker and midfielder, but he's since excelled at centre-back and he's considered very strong, pacy and someone who can read the game well from the back.

Kingdon stands at 6ft 1in and briefly played rugby as a child but wanted to prioritise football. He was also a gifted athlete, as he once took gold medals in the 75m, 150m and 600m sprints at the Bolton United Harriers championships.

He has represented Scotland, whom he qualifies to represent through his father, at different youth levels and has worn the captain's armband on occasions.