He even has a range of celebrations, using Rashford’s trademark finger to the temple when he scored his second.

Should he decide to look through United’s history in the Youth Cup, Obi will see a number of famous names among those who have won the trophy.

Joining Duncan Edwards, George Best, Ryan Giggs, David Beckham, Gary Neville, Phil Neville and Paul Pogba among many others would put Obi in pretty good company.

Obi left the field to the loudest ovation of the night, getting a warm hug of congratulation from head coach Adam Lawrence on his way off.

Understandably, the club are keen to protect the youngster. Lawrence didn’t want to talk about him – or anyone – after the game.

However, they cannot stop supporters acknowledging what they can see with their own eyes.

One fan at the Preston game, Kim Spjut, told BBC Sport: “He is something special, fantastic running, good touch, finishing. He has star quality, you can just see it. He’s already making headlines.”

“I’d like to see him in the first team,” said Steve Owens, a United fan from Bolton who was at the Chelsea game.

“He’s always in the right place, is good with his feet, is fast and can finish.

“At under-18 and under-21 level, he hasn’t really played against anyone as quick and strong, so we have not seen how he would react. But you don’t know until you give him a go.

“He has definitely got it.”