Manchester United defender Tyrell Malacia has heaped praise on his support network.

Writing for manutd.com, Malacia said: "I always kept the faith that I wanted to be a footballer.

"I played for local teams, two clubs, and then I went to Feyenoord when I was eight. I went to a friendly against Liverpool with my grandad. I don't remember that much apart from the atmosphere and everything.

"Back then, I was already there inside the stands and then I was on the pitch so it was amazing. A lot of the players we good to me. There was a goalkeeper, I was really close to him, Kenneth Vermeer. He was – and still is – a good friend. I'm still in contact with other players and they always help me too.

"I think true people always stay around so they always stay with me.

"I wouldn't say I've come a long way, I would say we as I certainly didn't do it on my own. So we came a long way but I still have to make steps and there is a lot of space for improvement.

"That is what we are going to work on."