WHEN A manager publicly praises a player's performance, it bodes well for that player going forward.
But when that manager is Wayne Rooney, it probably means that little bit more.
19-year-old Louie Watson came on for Derby at the weekend, and despite suffering yet another defeat, Rooney spoke highly of the young lad.
Speaking of Watson's substitute appearance, Rooney said: "I brought Louie Watson and Patrick Roberts on in the early stages of the second-half to be a bit more creative and to make chances.
"They're prepared to take more risks and I was pleased with how they affected the game."
This comes after Rooney spoke even higher of Watson in a recent game against Cardiff, saying: "It is not easy to come on and I was hesitant bringing them on because to come on at 3-0 down, it is difficult to come on and try to have an impact on the game.
"Especially Louie Watson though, I thought he was fantastic. He took the ball, he was brave and breaking lines with his passes and gave us something different."
A name to look out for, we reckon.
Watson was born in London, but has represented Ireland's under 18 side twice, and could well be on Stephen Kenny's radar as a result.
While it may be too soon to get excited about Watson, Rooney also gave young Dubliner Jason Knight the captaincy, so it's safe to say he has been impressed with the young Irish contingent at his first club.
