Manchester United coaching staff remain confident Axel Tuanzebe is a long-term centre-half option.

The 22-year-old is back-up to current starters Harry Maguire and Victor Lindelof, but has still made 10 appearances in a season blighted by injury.

The Athletic reports Tuanzebe is held in the highest of regards by club bosses, who feel he could become 'absolute top class'.

Key to his development will be whether he can stay fit however, which has proved to be difficult for him this season.

He was ruled out for a month back in October with a hip injury, while hamstring issues have kept him on the sidelines since just before Christmas.

Tuanzebe enjoyed an impressive loan spell at Aston Villa in the championship last season, but his fitness problems have now scuppered the rest of his campaign this term.