“He had a great season last year, albeit a stop-start season with injuries, but he’s really proven that he’s capable of playing at this level.

”He got promoted with Aston Villa and he’s come back very strong and focused. He did well in the first game here in Perth, so he’s one of the young exciting players I can’t wait to see more of. “

Axel was named in the starting XI for our first pre-season game against Perth Glory and played the first 45 minutes alongside Phil Jones in central defence.

The defender was replaced at half-time as Ole rotated his squad for match fitness purposes, but nonetheless Axel produced an assured performance as United kept a clean sheet against the Australian A-League outfit.