Kobbie Mainoo is set to be handed his first England U21 call up next month, as the FA seek to ward off Ghana’s interest in the Manchester United starlet
- Kobbie Mainoo has emerged as one of Man United’s best performers recently
- The teenager has represented England at three different youth levels to date
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Manchester United’s Kobbie Mainoo is in line for a first call up to England’s Under 21s next month.
The central midfielder has been a shining light for Erik ten Hag in his breakout season, making 14 appearances since forcing a way into the team three months ago.
The FA are aware of Ghana’s interest in Mainoo switching international allegiances and want him involved for the Under-21 European Qualifiers against Azerbaijan and Luxembourg.
Lee Carsley has been paying close attention to the 18-year-old’s progress in recent weeks, with senior boss Gareth Southgate also taking in his performance at Aston Villa last Sunday.
England have a recent history of promoting teenagers at the very start of their careers, with Manchester City’s Rico Lewis earning recognition last year before a quick senior call this term.
Kobbie Mainoo is set to receive his first call up to the England U21 squad for fixtures next month
England U21 boss Lee Carsley has been paying close attention to the 18-year-old’s progress
Mainoo has come through the FA’s system having already featured for England’s Under 17s, 18s and 19s. There is room for an all-action midfielder in Carsley’s side and confidence that the United youngster will opt for England over Ghana.
United have not been blessed with many young stars in the Under-21 setup over recent seasons, with Mason Greenwood the last regular to earn caps.
Brandon Williams was only given a solitary appearance and James Garner rose to prominence following a loan spell at Nottingham Forest.
Chelsea’s Carney Chukwuemeka and Alex Scott at Bournemouth are both back on the Under-21 radar after struggling with injuries. Fitness issues have previously seen the pair pull out of international duty.
