United boss says England youngster has bright future after debut goal.

Sir Alex Ferguson believes Nick Powell has a bright future ahead of him after the England youngster scored on his Manchester United debut.

The teenager, who was signed from Crewe Alexandra in the summer, came on in the second half of United’s victory over Wigan Athletic on Saturday.

His side were leading 3-0 thanks to goals from Paul Scholes, Javier Hernandez and fellow debutant Alex Buttner.

And Powell arrived for his first appearance sealing victory with a 20-yard drive that gave Ali Al-Habsi little chance.

The goal followed his strike for England's U19s in their 3-1 defeat to Germany two weeks ago and had Ferguson purring as his side notched their third successive win.

"Nick Powell is going to be a really good player," said Sir Alex.

"He has a great temperament. He has two feet and is quick. He is a great striker of the ball.

"For an 18-year-old boy it has been a terrific day."