The young former Crewe Alexandra player was signed by the Champions for what can be considered a large fee in January just under twelve months ago and it is clear to see why they were happy to pay such a fee for the attacking midfielder.
The Latics were very much stuttering in their performances and were devoid of goal threat before Powell's loan move to the club.
And whilst things are still far from perfect on the field Powell has quickly established himself as a star in the first eleven and is operating as the number one goal threat.
Physically he has excellent attributes. As well as standing over six feet tall Powell has good pace, strength, and determination, his allround physical ability is good.
But the most impressive aspect of Powell's game is his mental attitude. For one so young he shows great composure of mind and reads the game like a veteran, so often popping up in the right place at the right time.
It is testament to his ability that he has so quickly established himself in the Latics squad and become such an integral part of our operation from game to game.
Powell is the key link and creativity between our midfield and attack and in a team struggling in front of goal he serves up such compaure and talent in front of goal that some of the more experienced strikers could learn a lot from him.
To matters on the field it is fair to say that recent performances suggest there is more to come from the Latics.
Despite results not going entirely the right way the performances offer hope for the future.
At the moment the games are coming a little too thik and fast to be able to react, learn, and develop and it is much the case of just getting through them and trying to get the right results.
So long as we can sit in a half decent position as we depart the festive period then once the shackles of our many cup competitions and sides lines have been removed we can focus fully on driving forward a promotion challenge.
There was a great deal of upheaval in the summer at the club and it has taken time for the team to gel. We're certinly getting there and if our big summer signing up front can focus on his fitness we could well hit form at the right time this year.
Although the league table doesn't make for hte best viewing at the moment there have been a number of factors that haven't helped our cause.
If we can keep our hat in the ring as long as possible there is always a chance of a late surge.