England national team manager Gareth Southgate has explained his decision to leave out Kobbie Mainoo from his 25-man England squad for March international break, MySportDab reports.
We reported earlier that Gareth Southgate has named his 25-man squad to prosecute the Three Lions double-header international friendlies against Brazil and Belgium in March 23 and 26.
Brentford forward Ivan Toney is back to the Three Lions squad after serving eight months ban and making a roaring return with Brentford in the Premier League.
Jordan Henderson, who risked his England national team slot after leaving Liverpool to Al-Etiffaq is included in the squad, thanks to his decision to return to Europe for a stint with Ditch sids Ajax.
Cole Palmer has earn a call-up following his standout performance for Chelsea after joining the club from Manchester City in the summer.
Manchester United youngster Kobbie Mainoo was expected to earn his call-up after his breakout into Manchester United first team.
Several English pundits have tipped the youngster to make Gareth Southgate’s list following his composure and matured performances for the Red Devils.
The Stockport-born England youth player has earned widespread acclaim and plaudits for his scintillating individual performances for the Old Trafford club.
However, it appears Kobbie Mainoo has not convinced Southgate enough to earn a call-up to England national team.
Specifically addressing his decision to leave out the promising youngster, Gareth Southgate said he is taking note of Mainoo’s performances but added that the young player will need more time to learn the cuts and thrusts of professional football before earning a call-up.
In a quote shared by Fabrizio Romano, Southgate said;
“He’s doing brilliantly for a young player. 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 Man Utd, he looks really good character”.
🔴🏴 Southgate on why Kobbie Mainoo has been left out: “He’s doing brilliantly for a young player. 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 Man Utd, he looks really good character”. pic.twitter.com/VgjEos0GfN
— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) March 14, 2024
Kobbie Mainoo has made 14 Premier League and 2 Champions League appearances for Manchester United since his breakout. His first Premier League goal against Aston Villa was voted Premier League Goal of the Month of February.
It is unlikely, Mainoo will beat Gareth Southgate’s marks to earn England call-up before 2024 Euros. He will have the rest of the reason to prove his mettle for his England call-up before 2024 Euros.
Meanwhile, Mainoo’s native country Ghana are also eyeing the possibility of drafting the youngster into Black Stars squad.
