Rochdale’s Luke Matheson returns to school AND makes debut on day to remember
Reports claim starlet is already being watched by Manchester United after his man of the match award for the League One side on his bow
ROCHDALE starlet Luke Matheson had a first day back at school to remember – by making his senior debut hours later.
Matheson, 15, reported back for his final year at school on Tuesday morning, and then turned in a man of the match display in Rochdale’s 2-1 Checkatrade Trophy win over Bury.
The 15-year-old was introduced to the game as a 13th minute substitute but then outshone everyone on the pitch to inspire his side to victory.
And that has led The to claim Manchester United are already following the progress of the fresh-faced defender, who has been training with the senior squad since he was 14.
Old Trafford scouts are understood to have been aware of the teenager for some time, but his impact in becoming Rochdale’s youngest ever debutante at 15 years 336 days will have been well noticed.
Chelsea and Everton are said to be other Premier League clubs who have been alerted to his potential.
Keith Hill, manager of the League One side, said: “Luke Matheson – wow!
“That first-half was a little insight into what we see on the training pitch. We know what he can do.
“It’s not a leap of faith because we know he can do it, but is he cut out for the pressure of real men’s football?
“The supporters were receptive to Luke, and the players are and were as well.
“He’s been training with the first team whilst he’s not been at school during the summer and I’m really pleased for him that he got his chance. They’re special nights when that happens.
“He was outstanding.”
The right back told the club’s website: “All the first team players have looked after me and they’ve welcomed me in.
“They still foul me sometimes and let me know that they’re there, and I like that because it’s better than them treating me like a kid.”