Brandon Williams had only played for Manchester United twice the last time they faced Liverpool in the Premier League. This weekend he deserves to start.
Ole Gunnar Solskjaer's side head to Anfield with little expectancy to cause a shock but in Williams they have a player who proves that anything can happen.
The teenager wasn't even in the United first-team picture last summer and was considered below Ethan Laird as a defender with credentials of making a breakthrough this season.
Yet following an incredible start to the season at youth level Williams burst into the first-team, dislodged two senior players ahead of him, earned a new contract and convinced the club to halt their search for a new left-back. Not bad for a player who only made his debut back in October.
Another tussle with Pedro Neto on Wednesday was one of few highlights on a night which largely underwhelmed at Old Trafford as Williams yet again showcased his determination and character in the FA Cup triumph.
While supporters have come accustomed to his tenacity in defence Williams is loved more so for his genuine talent on the pitch. A lung bursting run in the second-half saw him close down Neto once again, defying the odds to deny the winger's cut inside and attempt at a shot.
If the youngster can stay as focused at the weekend then his battle against Mohamed Salah could be pivotal in securing any positive result for his side.
"I'm confident, it's a morale boost," Williams reiterated after nullifying Adama Traore on Wednesday night. "We got into the weekend full of confidence." He has every right to mean it, too.
With an unbeaten record stretching well over a year Liverpool are thoroughly expected to secure another three points this weekend but under the counter-attacking tactics of Solskjaer United might stand a better chance than some think.
Liverpool's superior individual talent makes them favourites for the encounter, but if Williams and Aaron Wan-Bissaka can play to the best of their ability then an upset could well be on the cards.
Wan-Bissaka has made a case for himself to be the best defensive right-back in the Premier League this season, while opposite number Trent Alexander-Arnold will be tested against the cavalier approach from Williams on the left.
The 19-year-old terrorised Norwich with his overlapping play at the weekend and earned another penalty when his sprint into the box saw him brought down by Tim Krul.
Any lapses in concentration this weekend could provide United with a rare opportunity to hurt Liverpool and in Williams they have someone who can not only subdue the opposition attacking threat but spearhead United's very own.
