England manager Gareth Southgate is looking to experiment with his squad ahead of next month’s friendlies, and Manchester United wonderkid Kobbie Mainoo is firmly in his sights.
The Three Lions are scheduled to face Brazil and Belgium next month, and the Daily Mail reports that Mainoo could be handed his first national team cap.
Despite only bursting onto the scenes this season, Mainoo has been the talk of the town, forcing his way into Erik ten Hag’s starting line-up with several eye-catching performances.
The 18-year-old has featured 11 times for United and bagged his debut Premier League goal in the dramatic 4-3 victory over Wolverhampton Wanderers at Molineux.
Mainoo is only a teenager, but he has demonstrated the composure and experience of a seasoned veteran, pulling the strings from the base of midfield with elegance.
The Stockport-born central midfielder is averaging a 59% dribble success rate and has won 50% of his total duels this season. He also averages 0.9 interceptions, 1.7 tackles, and 3.7 recoveries per 90.
The youngster has added composure and control to United’s midfield, and his press-resistant ability helps Ten Hag’s side build from defence with relative ease.
Mainoo has been nothing short of exceptional since linking up with the first team, and his dazzling performances are about to earn him a call-up to Southgate’s national team squad for the first time.
He has represented England at youth level but is still eligible to feature for the Ghanaian national team through his parents.
Recent reports suggest the teenager is in no rush to decide where to pledge his allegiance, but getting an early call-up from Southgate could show the level of trust the manager has in his abilities.
Mainoo has been at the heart of United’s resurgence. He delivered another impressive performance in the crucial 2-1 win over Luton Town, helping United move five points off the Champions League places.
The youngster is also in line to be called up by England under-21 manager Lee Carsley for next month’s European Championship qualifiers against Azerbaijan and Luxembourg.
Stats from Sofascore.com
