Gareth Southgate has acknowledged Kobbie Mainoo’s impressive performances for Manchester United but explained that the young midfielder has not yet played enough senior games to warrant an England call-up. Southgate compared Mainoo’s situation to that of Jude Bellingham and Bukayo Saka, who had more first-team experience when they received their first senior call-ups.
He emphasized the importance of allowing Mainoo to develop at his own pace and not rushing his progression into the senior team. The England manager also mentioned other young talents who are excelling with the Under-21 squad, indicating a bright future for England’s midfield. Despite Mainoo’s exclusion from the upcoming friendlies against Brazil and Belgium, Southgate’s comments suggest that he is closely monitoring the youngster’s development.
Speaking in a press conference after the 25-man squad was announced, Gareth Southgate explained the reasoning behind his decision.
“I think he’s doing brilliantly for a young player,” he said.
“We’re never slow to put a young player into the seniors but he’s only had a handful of games. He’s getting some fabulous experience at Manchester United and looks a really good character.”
Midfielder Jordan Henderson, meanwhile, has been handed a call-up to the England squad following his recent move to Ajax.
Southgate confirmed he’d spoken to Henderson prior to his move from Al Ettifaq to the Eredivisie side.
“We did speak. I’m not going to divulge that conversation,” he said.
“It’s good to see him playing back in a league that’s probably easier for us to assess, and of course he’s involved in European football. It’s now easier for us to see the level he’s operating at.”
Southgate added: “Hendo is someone who brings at lot to the team.”
Many tipped Mainoo to be handed his England debut ahead of this month’s friendlies, including former Arsenal striker Ian Wright.
“Kobbie Mainoo has to be in the next England squad,” he said during United’s 2-1 win over Luton. “Such maturity in chaotic conditions that we’ve not seen from a England player in a long time. Impressed every time I watch him.”
