Kobbie Mainoo injury: Why Man Utd midfielder missed friendly game v Barnsley

Manchester United midfielder Kobbie Mainoo has not suffered an injury setback despite being left out of the squad for Tuesday’s midweek friendly win over Barnsley.

The Red Devils beat the League One side 3-0 in a behind-closed-doors encounter, designed to maintain fitness levels for those who aren’t on international duty. Mainoo didn’t feature in the match, resulting in claims that there has been a hitch with his recovery from an long-term ankle injury, but ManchesterWorld understands that is not the case.

A decision was made by United’s medical team that Mainoo would not play in the match as his return continues to be managed. The teenager has not played since picking up an injury during a pre-season encounter against Real Madrid in July, when Mainoo had to be replaced after just six minutes.

Despite that, the academy product has returned to United training in recent weeks, leading to suggestions he could be an option again after the international break. That is looking less likely, however, given Mainoo’s lack of involvement against Barnsley.

His injury has come as a real blow to Erik ten Hag, who has been without several midfield options in the opening weeks of the season. Mainoo started in four of the team’s first five pre-season matches this summer - the exception being the loss to Wrexham, with the side made up mainly of youth-team players.

United’s no.37 was expected to play a significant role this season, and it’s hoped the injury does not stunt his development in the first-team set-up. Mainoo, who has been capped at various England underage levels, has made just three senior appearances for United.