Cambridge United boss Neil Harris had nothing but praise for young forward Ben Knight after his spectacular performance against Walsall on Saturday.
The 20-year-old, who joined the club on loan from Manchester City in January, scored a brace in the second half to secure a 2-0 victory for the U’s at the Banks’s Stadium.
Harris, who took over as Cambridge manager in November, was full of admiration for Knight’s impact on the team and believes he has a bright future ahead of him.
“I am absolutely delighted for Ben,” Harris said. “He has been working hard in training and his hard work paid off today. He showed great composure and quality to score two fantastic goals.”
Knight’s first goal came in the 55th minute when he received the ball on the edge of the box and calmly slotted it past the Walsall goalkeeper. His second goal, just 10 minutes later, was a spectacular long-range effort that left the home fans stunned.
Harris was particularly impressed with Knight’s composure in front of goal, especially considering the pressure of playing for a team fighting for promotion.
“To score two goals like that in such an important game shows the kind of player Ben is,” Harris added. “He has a maturity beyond his years and I have no doubt he will continue to improve and develop as a player.”
The young forward’s performance did not go unnoticed by the Cambridge faithful, who were quick to praise him on social media. Many are now calling for the club to extend his loan deal beyond the end of the season.
Knight joined Manchester City’s academy at the age of nine and has made a name for himself as a versatile and skillful attacker. He has represented England at the youth level and is highly regarded by the Premier League giants.
His loan move to Cambridge has provided him with valuable first-team experience and has allowed him to showcase his abilities on a bigger stage.
Harris believes that Knight has a bright future ahead of him and has the potential to make it at the highest level.
“He has all the qualities to become a top player,” Harris said. “He has the technical ability, the composure, and the work ethic to succeed. I have no doubt that he will continue to grow and improve as a player.”
Knight himself was pleased with his performance and was quick to credit his teammates for their support.
“It was a great team performance and I am just happy to have contributed to the win,” Knight said. “The boys have been very welcoming since I arrived and I am grateful for their support.”
The win against Walsall has put Cambridge in a strong position for promotion to League One, with just six games remaining. Harris believes that Knight’s performance is a testament to the team’s hard work and determination.
“We are a team that works hard for each other and Ben’s performance today is a reflection of that,” Harris said. “We have a great group of players and we will continue to fight until the very end.”
The U’s will be hoping that Knight can continue his impressive form in the remaining games of the season and help them achieve their goal of promotion. With his talent, determination, and the support of his team, there is no doubt that he will be a key player in their journey.
As for Knight, he remains focused on the task at hand and is determined to give his all for the club.
“I am just taking things one game at a time and giving my best for Cambridge United,” Knight said. “I am thankful for the opportunity and I will continue to work hard and improve as a player.”
