‘You’ve not made it’ - Man United legend advises Nigeria-eligible youngster Chido Obi-Martin

Chido Obi-Martin joined Manchester United from Arsenal last summer after deciding not to sign a professional contract with the Gunners.

Since his arrival he has been gradually integrated into the Manchester United first team as he looks to break into the first eleven.

The young Manchester United player, aged 17, was substituted in at the 67th minute mark during their FA Cup match against Fulham.

The Nigerian-eligible forward received high praise from Cole and has advised the forward on how to handle situations.

Cole said on Rio Ferdinand Presents Podcast, “He did well. Can I tell you why? At 17, what’s your fear? He doesn’t have anything to be scared of.

"If I was 17 and I came on, I’d try to ruffle a few defenders and score a goal, and that’s what he did because he’s in the senior team. 

“He wouldn’t have done that if he was playing with his age group. When you’re raw and you’re 17, you have no fear. I looked at him yesterday, and he’s got a chance. He’s still rough around the edges, but you expect him to be.”

Cole also cautioned the forward that a professional football career can be unpredictable and advised him to remain humble if he wants to advance at Old Trafford.

“I only made it when I retired. It was then I could look back and be like, ‘yeah, I did alright. ‘ At 17, you’re only just starting. No matter what you’ve done, you’ve not made it.

“Head down, man, keep your head down and keep working hard. Keep doing what you’re doing. When I was younger, it was different, but now, I’ll just tell them to keep being the best they can be. 

“We all know there are pitfalls in football, but keep your head down, and you’ll be doing okay,” he concluded.