Ravel Morrison: 10 Reasons He's Manchester United's Next Big Star

Have you heard about Ravel Morrison yet?

Of course you have. But if not, here are two excellent introductions.

If you don't think that's a great first impression, just wait. It might not be long before the 18-year-old midfielder—along with his buddies—gets a chance to really show you what he's got.

Until then, though, here are 10 reasons to believe Morrison is destined to be United's next big thing.

Only time will tell, of course, but we think he's got a shot.

Here we go…

We'll start with Ravel Morrison's performance against Chelsea in the 2011 FA Youth Cup semifinal second leg.

Morrison (wearing the No. 10 in the video) played the creative role just behind the main striker. He excelled, directing play as United won 4-0, and scored the first goal with a deflected effort.

Part one of his performance appears in the video at left. Here's part two.

Morrison scored two more goals—and generally played well—in the 2011 FA Youth Cup final as United beat Sheffield United 4-1.

His second was particularly impressive. After a long dribble and run across the top of the Sheffield box, Morrison deposited his shot in the far corner while moving the opposite direction.

That's hard for any keeper to stop, at any level.

Morrison impressed with his excellent performances as a playmaker during United's FA Youth Cup run.

That's not the only position he can play.

As his profile at Manchester United's official website points out, Morrison can play the creative role just behind the main striker, as a winger, or in a central role.

That kind of versatility will be valuable as Morrison moves into the first team. He'll be able to get on the pitch more often, and with more appearances, he'll have more chances to shine.

Morrison already knows how to get into mischief like an old pro.

Check it out: He narrowly avoided jail time after intimidating a mugging victim earlier this year.

That's terrible, but it's also sadly typical of football stars.

Actually, if Morrison wants to become a really big star, this is the kind of thing he needs to cut out.

Morrison is 18 now, but he's been impressing fans at least since he was 15.

Check out this match from the 2008-09 FA Youth Cup. The first goal of the game was scored by a 15-year-old Morrison.

Not bad, eh.

Morrison's performances for United's youth teams earned him a senior squad number in October 2010.

OK, so he's troubled, but he's got the skills to succeed. And for now he's got No. 49 and the respect of Sir Alex Ferguson.

Morrison earned his senior debut in October 2010 against Wolverhampton Wanderers in the Carling Cup. He replaced Park Ji-Sung in second-half stoppage time.

Just 17 at the time, Morrison got only a few moments on the pitch. But an appearance in the senior squad is still a major milestone for any youth player.

It also showed how highly United regard Morrison.

Here's another chapter from Morrison's troubled side. He already knows how to get into trouble on Twitter.

It was hilarious, really. The incident showed all the hallmarks of today's ego-driven footballers: arrogance, selfishness and a bit of a persecution complex.

Seriously, though, aren't those the traits of a big star these days?

Here's another great goal from Morrison. This one, as the commentator says, is electric.

Morrison controls the ball inside the box, beats a defender with a pull-back, takes a few dribbles and drills an unstoppable shot high off the underside of the crossbar.

Yikes. That's a man among boys right there.

Oh, and that was the winner for United against Newcastle in the 2011 FA Youth Cup fifth round.

No wonder the club's higher-ups are so patient with him.

That's not all Morrison did in the FA Youth Cup last season.

Here are two more goals he scored against Liverpool. At Anfield.

The second one should give you goosebumps if you're a Manchester United fan.

The kid is fearless.