Manchester United midfielder Kobbie Mainoo has been praised for his confident performance in England’s final group game against Slovenia, and is being considered for a starting spot in their next match. Despite being just 19 years old, Mainoo has already proven himself as an attacking player and has been called upon twice as a substitute at Euro 2024.
Speaking on BBC Radio 5 Live Breakfast, Sam Wallace of the Telegraph believes that Southgate’s instincts would be to stick with a defensive-minded midfielder alongside Declan Rice. However, he also notes that Mainoo’s strong performance justified his selection based on his ability to attack from the back.
Mainoo was second in possession won and joint third in total duels during his half-time appearance against Slovenia, and Wallace believes that this performance should earn him more playing time in the future. With England still having several games left to play before the knockout stages begin, it will be interesting to see if Southgate decides to give Mainoo another chance in the starting lineup.
