AliousMatty Young is making waves at Salford City as he prepares to face the daunting task of keeping out Manchester City in the FA Cup this weekend.
The 18-year-old Sunderland-born goalkeeper has been in sensational form during his loan spell with the League Two club, helping them climb to joint second in the division with an incredible run of clean sheets.
Since joining Salford on a season-long loan in July, Young has gone from strength to strength.
After a brief spell on the bench, he seized his opportunity in November, starting in an FA Cup game just a week after his 18th birthday.
That match, where he earned Player of the Match honors and saved a penalty, marked a turning point in his young career.
Since then, he’s kept eight clean sheets in nine appearances across all competitions, playing a pivotal role in Salford’s six-match winning streak and league-leading defensive record.
Reflecting on his progress, Young told *safc.com*, “My first start was unforgettable. It was in the FA Cup, I saved a penalty, and it gave me the confidence to secure my place in the team.
Moving to Salford was a big adjustment, being away from home, but it’s been a great learning experience. Matches like the one against Gillingham, where conditions were tough, have been humbling.
But since then, we’ve gone on an amazing unbeaten run.”
Young credits his development to the supportive environment at Salford, praising the mix of youth and experience within the squad.
“The players around me have been fantastic. The back three in front of me have made my job easier, and when I’m called upon, I’ve been able to deliver.
The manager, Karl Robinson, has been excellent. He’s trusted me and given me the chance to prove myself. Now it’s about repaying that faith.”
This weekend, Young will experience the biggest moment of his career as Salford faces Premier League champions Manchester City in the third round of the FA Cup.
The match, broadcast live on BBC One, is not just a local derby but a David vs. Goliath clash that embodies the magic of the competition.
“To be drawn against Manchester City feels surreal,” Young admitted. “They’re the elite of the elite, but we’re relishing the challenge.
Whether I play or not, it’s a dream fixture. I imagine making a big save against someone like Erling Haaland or even stopping a penalty – that’s the stuff you dream of. Our team is ready to fight for everything, and we’re here to create history.”
Young’s impressive season follows years of dedication at Sunderland, where he’s been part of the Academy of Light since the age of seven.
In November, he signed a new contract with the Black Cats, extending his future at the club until 2028.
“Sunderland means the world to me,” he said.
“I’ve supported the club my whole life, and playing for them one day is my ultimate goal.
For now, I’m focused on improving, gaining experience, and proving I’m ready when the time comes. The progress I’ve made this season has been really rewarding, and I’m excited about what’s ahead.”
With his roots firmly planted in Wearside and a bright future ahead, Matty Young is proving he has the talent and determination to make it to the top.
All eyes will be on him this weekend as he takes the next step in his journey, aiming to make his mark on football’s grandest stage.
Alious
