Luton Town v Manchester United, ManU EFL Cup 22/09/2020. Manchester United defender Brandon Williams 33 during the EFL Cup match between Luton Town and Manchester United at Kenilworth Road, Luton, England on 22 September 2020. Editorial use only DataCo restrictions apply See www.football-dataco.com PUBLICATIONxNOTxINxUK , Copyright: xNigelxKeenex PSI-10626-0071
According to The Athletic (h/t Express), Manchester United academy graduate Brandon Williams is likely to be the subject of interest from Southampton. Williams has fallen down the pecking order at the club given the resources available. The Saints, who held strong interest in the player over the summer, could again test out Manchester United’s stance with a loan offer for him.
Brandon Williams caught the eye for United’s U-18 side and also featured for the U-19s in the UEFA Youth League before making a big impression for the U-23s at the Premier League 2 level.
The highly-rated left-back was handed his senior debut in an EFL Cup tie against Rochdale in September last year. Williams went on to make 36 appearances across all competitions over the course of an impressive debut season last term. He registered a goal and 2 assists in the process.
However, he has just made three appearances this season, with two coming in the EFL Cup and one in the Champions League. Having previously represented England at the U-20 level, Williams recently made his U-21 debut for the Three Lions in a 3-3 draw against Andorra.
When Manchester United brought in Alex Telles in the summer, it was clear that Brandon Williams would have it tough this season. He wouldn’t be afforded the same amount of chances as last season. Shaw has staked his claim to be the first choice and it was only his injury that allowed Telles to take over.
With two experienced heads in the same position, it is evident that they are going to share the duties through the season. Williams, who is right-footed, cannot even push for the right-back spot as Aaron Wan-Bissaka has made the position his own.
With opportunities available at a premium this season, it would be best for Manchester United and player to consider Southampton’s offer. The Saints are a bit light in that department, with Bertrand the only senior option currently available. Sam McQueen is out for an unknown period of time and Jake Vokins is too young to be starting games.
Sending the 20-year-old Williams on loan would give him the necessary game time to continue on his development. Under Hasenhuttl, he would get even better guidance and develop his game in an intricate way. With the best interests of Williams in mind, Manchester United should allow him to go out on loan.
