Mainoo hasn't hit heights of meteoric rise

ONE of the endearing sights amid United's celebrations after Bruno Fernandes and Harry Maguire hoisted the League Cup was of Erik ten Hag making a beeline for Kobbie Mainoo on the Wembley turf.

- SAMUEL LUCKHURST

Mainoo was still 17, with 87 minutes of playing time to his name and in civilian clothing. The Reds had invited players not involved in the matchday squad and the League Cup was not deemed worthy of a cup final suit.

Ten Hag, with his gold medal draped around his neck, placed his hand on Mainoo, clasped hands, spoke to him for 15 seconds and ended the pep talk by patting him on the head.

You can see Mainoo says 'yeah' and Ten Hag is one of those coaches I who do not conceal their mouth (unlike his women's team counterpart Marc Skinner). You do not have to be a lip reader to get the gist of what Ten Hag was imparting. Keep going and you'll be part of this in the -near future.

Exactly 391 days later, Mainoo played at Wembley for England against Brazil. On Tuesday night, he started against Belgium and was man of the match.

Next month, Mainoo will start for United at Wembley against Coventry City in the FA Cup semi-final. Provided he avoids injury, he is as assured of strolling out and onto the pitch alongside Fernandes, who will lead United out.

"His attributes are there for everybody to see," Gareth Southgate enthused. "The ability to receive under pressure, ride challenges, to manipulate the ball in tight areas.