Reactions following Kobbie Mainoo’s awesome debut for England at 18

Kobbie Mainoo who plays for Manchester United generated positive reactions for an outstanding performance against Belgium during his debut for England yesterday. He was still aged 18.

Real Madrid player and fellow countryman Jude Bellingham was also on the pitch yesterday during their hard-earned draw (2-2) against Belgium.

Bellingham said the following to Channel 4 at a post-match interview:

‘He was good tonight.

‘It’s difficult, I’m speaking like the old head and I know there’s a clamour [for him to be picked] but he is definitely a brilliant player and he will have a great future for Manchester United and hopefully for England too.’

The Three Lions’ coach Gareth Southgate who included Mainoo in the English main team was nothing less than pleased after finding out he made the right choice. The player was still 18, but did well against one of the world’s best teams.

‘I’ll be delighted if everyone is fit for a start, so let’s hope we’ve got all those decisions to make,’ Southgate said to talkSPORT post-match.

‘I’m really pleased with the way he played. He’s so comfortable receiving the ball under pressure, his strength against some combative midfielders and a beautiful bit of play in the lead-up to the first goal. There were several moments like that with him.

‘He’s a bit more open without the ball and there was evidence of that as well so we’ve got to get the right balance to the team.

‘But it’s great to have a player like him as an option.’

Among those who reacted at the new intake’s performance were talkSPORT’s Stuart Pearce.

‘I think he had a super game, I really do. He’s been confident on the ball and turned when he’s had the opportunity to do so,’ said Pearce.

‘With two caps under his belt I think he’s looked very sufficient in his standard of play and it’ll be interesting to see how he finishes the season for United.’

Another person was Gary Lineker. He reacted as follows on X:

‘A superb first start by Kobbie Mainoo for England.

‘He’s not only played himself into the squad for the Euros but quite possibly the starting line-up.

‘Well played young man.’

So starts Mainoo’s journey in the English main team. He had proved himself a worthy addition in the Premier League circle, and did not disappoint in the national front too.

We wish him all the best.

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