Gabriel says 'everyone works for each other' in Man Utd academy after winning Player of Season

JJ Gabriel says how the Manchester United academy has helped him "mature" and improve after he won the Premier League U18s Player of the Season.

The exciting talent has been rewarded for a stunning season with Darren Fletcher's side, despite still only being 15 and playing in a higher age-group.

His strike in the 3-1 win over Stoke City at the weekend was his 21st of the league season and there is still the FA Youth Cup final to look forward to, against Manchester City on Thursday.

Gabriel has helped the Reds reach this stage of the prestigious competition, and will be looking to get his hands on team silverware, after this individual accolade.

"I'm delighted to win this award," he told MUTV in his first interview with the club. "I thank my coaches and team-mates for helping me win this amazing award.

"Since we came together as the Under-18s, we've become a very good team. Everyone looks out for each other and we all work hard for each other. I think we've had a very good season."

The Academy, Fletcher and Gabriel's family have all played key roles in his eye-catching progress.

"I'd say [the Academy] helped me mature a lot," he said. "They help me to be very humble and keep my feet on the ground.

"I'm delighted to be working with him [Fletcher], he's an amazing coach and has helped me so much this season to become a better player and the best version of myself.

"I've got to say you've got to maintain working out on the training pitch every single day, giving it my all and working hard in the gym to stay fit and not get injured.

"My family have helped me a lot, through tough times and good times. They come to all my matches, no matter how far or close, and I love them to bits."

The award was announced at the Premier League Youth Development Conference on Thursday night, with Reds team-mate Albert Mills among his peers also nominated for the inaugural accolade.