Kobbie Mainoo has been promoted into England’s senior side (Photo by Robbie Jay Barratt – AMA/Getty Images)
Manchester United midfielder Kobbie Mainoo has received his first call-up to England’s national team.
The midfielder was initially called up to the U21 set-up, with Gareth Southgate suggesting the United ace hadn’t played enough football for the club.
But the 18-year-old has now been called into the senior side for upcoming friendlies against Belgium and Brazil.
It comes after Mainoo’s sensational display in Manchester United’s 4-3 win against Liverpool in the FA Cup on Sunday at Old Trafford.
Mainoo’s call-up comes despite all 25 players reporting to St George’s Park for the senior side.
Mainoo had been given a U21 call-up (Photo by Michael Regan/Getty Images)
Normally, players are only called up if there are dropouts or injuries.
But Mainoo’s performance against Liverpool was arguably his best of the season and calls for him to be promoted have been growing in recent weeks.
Mainoo only made his Premier League debut for United in November but he’s now a regular in the first team.
‘Kobbie Mainoo has received his first call up to the England men’s senior squad,’ a statement from the FA said.
‘The 18 year old was initially part of the MU21s squad but has been drafted into Gareth Southgate’s group.
‘All other 25 players reported to St. George’s Park on Tuesday ahead of the forthcoming internationals against Brazil and Belgium.
‘Manchester United midfielder Mainoo has previously represented England at MU17 through to MU19 level.’
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