Gareth Southgate's Kobbie Mainoo verdict as England make Man Utd midfielder decision

Manchester United teenager Kobbie Mainoo has been called up to the England squad, it has been confirmed.

Mainoo, 18, has been added to the national squad for the upcoming friendlies against Brazil and Belgium with the Premier League currently taking a break for international fixtures. He was initially named in the U21s squad.

England boss Gareth Southgate has previously spoken highly of the midfielder. In February, he said: "He’s doing brilliantly. I’m not certain he’s necessarily going to be a defensive midfielder, as such. He’s quite a progressive player but he’s had a fabulous start to his career and it will be good to monitor him as we go forward."

The teenager midfielder reacted on his social media, posting on Instagram: “It’s an honour to receive my first senior call up.”

Mainoo only signed his most recent deal in February 2023 but has since enjoyed an incredible rise to prominence at United. The midfielder was nine months away from making his Premier League debut when last putting pen to paper, but after featuring in the 3-0 win at Everton in November, he has started 13 of United's 15 league games and made 20 appearances across all competitions.