French-Nigerian midfielder Lesley Ugochukwu showed why he is so highly rated with a composed performance in a 1-1 draw against PSG in his first start in Ligue.
The 17 year old who has been at the club since the age of 9 was handed a start in the absence of Steven Nzonzi and Eduardo Camavinga who were both suspended for the game.
He lasted 61 minute and for the time he was on the pitch he didn’t look out of place with nice and well timed interceptions and faultless distribution of the ball when in possession.
Described by the technical director of Rennes Florian Maurice as a box to box midfielder he is regarded as one of the best prospect at the club and he is set for a big breakthrough next season.
Born in France to Nigerian parents in France, he signed his first professional deal in July at the age of 16 years, three months and four days. He thus become the second youngest player in the history of the club to sign professional contract.
Camavinga still holds the record of the youngest player to sign a professional deal at the club when he penned for the first time at the age of 16 years, one month and four days.
An extended run in the first team will no doubt trigger a scramble for his service at international level between Nigeria and France. He has already played for France at U17 level.
