Leny Yoro's first and last appearances for Lille were against Nice. His debut, as a 16-year-old, came in the presence of Sir Dave Brailsford.
Thompson closely assists Brailsford and fellow United football board member Jean-Claude Blanc to drive the performance levels. Yoro has gone up a few levels since Brailsford first clapped eyes on him.READ MORE: Everton baffled by Yoro fee amid United bids for Branthwaite Ratcliffe said earlier this year United would opt for a grassroots approach in the transfer market and Yoro is very green. Ratcliffe last month lamented the disadvantages of multi-club ownership in the transfer market as the Nice centre back Jean-Clair Todibo had been eyed by United but is now headed for West Ham.
Eight league games in an untried Europa League format should help him find his feet. Maguire and Evans are sound professionals who have been around the block and will offer expert guidance. It is a pity for Yoro that Raphael Varane, another teenage centre half at a northern French club United coveted 13 years ago, came to the end of the road at the club.
Yoro's age will not protect him from scrutiny but he need only look to his left at Martinez, written off by Jamie Carragher after two appearances. Despite an injury-plagued year, Martinez has been the most successful signing of the Erik ten Hag era.