Theo Walcott has said that he is a huge fan of Alejandro Garnacho after being impressed by the Manchester United star’s quickness in the final stages of extra time against Liverpool on Sunday.

Manchester United have qualified for the FA Cup semi-finals, where they will face Coventry City. Erik ten Hag’s side contributed significantly to a magnificent game at Old Trafford this weekend, with Amad Diallo scoring a dramatic late winner.

Alejandro Garnacho set up Amad, with the Argentine making an incredible run from well outside his own penalty area. The 19-year-old had played the whole game. Nonetheless, he retained the ability to soar away from the Liverpool players and locate his buddy.

Garnacho made five crucial passes throughout the game, according to Whoscored. No player on either side managed to score more.

Alejandro Garnacho praised after Manchester United winSpeaking about the FA Cup, Theo Walcott stated that he has been pleased with Garnacho’s daring and willingness to get on the ball and make things happen.

“The thing I admire about Garnacho is that he always gets into positions where he’s difficult to pull up. He makes runs off the ball, but it is also his ultimate result. He exudes a certain fire. He is always available for the ball. What I admire about him is that he is constantly cheerful. Every time he gets the ball. It’s a generation of inverted wingers, but he prefers to play from the outside, which I really appreciate. And he always keeps the fullback guessing. Here, he always makes so much room for himself. His hands are raised, and he’s constantly calling for it. He doubts Bradley and is constantly looking over his shoulder. And again, his first thought was optimistic, straight at him, “I’m going inside, outside.”

“He’s constantly in demand and always wants the ball. He has the confidence in himself to do things like [the back heel for Victor Lindelof’s effort]. This is something my son will try at home as well. Also, the touch is great.

“But now, in the 120th minute, he can still accomplish it. Not only that, but he appears to be becoming increasingly adept at handling the ball. He repeatedly delays the pass. And, of course, Amad delivered a spectacular finale near the end.

“I believe he has the veins of a Manchester United player. He’s a beautiful player to watch.”

Winger has stepped up

In a perfect world, Manchester United would not place so much on Garnacho’s shoulders. He is still discovering his way around the game. His lack of experience is evident at times.

But, clearly, this has been a really disappointing season for United. Ten Hag is still trying to establish that he is the proper person to lead the team forward. Clearly, the gap between them and the top sides has widened.

Garnacho’s rise has been one of the most notable benefits. And, while he is still a work in progress, there is no doubt that he is one of the players with the ability to make an impact on the greatest stages right now.