Madrid midfielder Jude Bellingham was asked about the performance of Manchester United’s Kobbie Mainoo on Tuesday, after the 18-year-old made his first senior England start in the 2-2 draw with Belgium.
Against Brazil, Mainoo had to wait for 75 minutes to make his debut. His promising cameo combined with the dire display from other Three Lions midfielders convinced Southgate to hand the 18-year-old his first senior start against Belgium.
Mainoo seamlessly slotted alongside Declan Rice and Jude Bellingham and delivered a performance to remember at Wembley.
He even left United target Amadou Onana eating grass on Tuesday evening.
The Wembley crowd applauded the United midfielder when Southgate took him off in the 74th minute of the game.
Post-match, he also received words of appreciation from his fellow countryman, Bellingham.
“Kobbie Mainoo is very good. I know how hard it can be when there is a clamour and people put a lot of pressure on you… but he is definitely a brilliant player.”
“He is going to have an amazing future at Man United and hopefully for England as well.”…… The Real Madrid superstar said
These two games have certainly improved Mainoo’s chances of being included in England’s squad for this summer’s European Championships.
