Manchester United U18 coach Paul McGuinness is pleased with the progress of Oliver Rathbone.

A hat-trick in a league victory against his father Mick's former club Blackburn Rovers, a day after his 18th birthday, highlighted his potential and, despite his small stature, the teenager is making good progress this term.

"Oli is still behind physically but he's showed a lot technically, as well as a great deal of intelligence in games," McGuinness informed ManUtd.com. "He did impress against Bury. Everybody was tired at that point and he was really fresh and wanted to do something.

"He gave us an injection of energy and has a very good temperament, which is encouraging. He's one or two years behind with his physical development but has given himself a chance by working full out all the time."