Cambridge United head coach Garry Monk has been impressed by Mamadou Jobe’s start to life in the Football League.
The 21-year-old centre-back was recalled from a loan spell at Vanarama National League outfit Gateshead last week and with captain Michael Morrison sidelined by a knee injury, Monk threw the youngster straight into the starting line-up for the 2-0 win at Barnsley on Friday.
And having caught the eye at Oakwell, Jobe retained his place as part of a back three alongside Ryan Bennett and Danny Andrew for Monday’s 3-1 home victory over Wigan Athletic.
Those were Jobe’s first two appearances in Sky Bet League One, although he had featured in United’s three EFL Trophy group matches this term.
Monk said: “If you look at where he’s been playing football this season, he’s been playing men’s football at a young age. In terms of readiness and toughness, he’s been dealing with big lads and battles in that position.
“I had no worries at all (about playing him) after watching his games this season and the type of character that he is.
“There’s still lots to work on and there were a few little errors out there today, but in terms of his first games, he’s been brilliant – especially for a young lad in that position.
“If you make a mistake, nine times out of 10 it’s a goal so he’s doing well. We’re going to work, keep him level headed and he just wants to do well.”
Harlow-born Jobe will hope to make his third straight start on Saturday (6 April) when Cambridge travel north to face ninth-placed Blackpool.
Monk revealed that skipper Morrison could return to training ahead of the clash with the Tangerines, while centre-forward Lyle Taylor is awaiting the results of a scan on a groin injury that he suffered at Barnsley.
