Manchester United midfielder Kobbie Mainoo impressed after coming off the bench at half-time in England’s draw with Slovenia.
England should not be in a position where they are depending on a teenage midfielder for a boost, but neither really should Manchester United.
And sometimes, the player is simply too good to leave out. Erik ten Hag recognised this for United, selecting Kobbie Mainoo is nearly every possible game he could.
England boss Gareth Southgate has shown a bit of restraint so far, refusing to select Mainoo as a starter in any of England’s group games.
Mainoo came off the bench against Slovenia in the 0-0 draw, and he impressed, giving the ball away only once during the 45 minutes.
Kobbie Mainoo shares message
England have finished top of the group with one wins and two draws. It could have been better, in terms of results and performances, but this situation could have been a lot worse too.
There is something to build on, and the defence has looked solid, one of the key areas heading into the tournament with Harry Maguire out injured and Luke Shaw with the squad but unfit.
Mainoo dropped a message on social media, making clear that England’s tournament has plenty of life left in it.
He wrote: “Top of the group, the marathon continues.”
Mainoo’s message received responses from some of his Manchester United academy colleagues, plus Cole Palmer.
The Chelsea midfielder came off the bench later in the game and left a ‘heart emoji’ in response to Mainoo’s post.
Palmer almost scored a late winner after Mainoo split the Slovenia defence with an impressive backheel, but his shot was saved.
Mainoo earns plaudits
Kobbie Mainoo and Cole Palmer were both praised by former Manchester United defender Rio Ferdinand after their performances.
Paul Scholes also made clear he was impressed with the way England ended the game.
Meanwhile Gary Neville and Roy Keane also stated that they felt Mainoo did enough to earn a start in the knockout rounds.
Whether Southgate is bold enough, is another matter. If he leaves Mainoo on the bench again, it’s his loss.