England should consider leaving Mainoo out of Euro 2024

Lee Sharpe believes England should consider leaving Manchester United midfielder Kobbie Mainoo at home for Euro 2024, if the teenager is not going to play a prominent role.

Mainoo’s meteoric emergence has seen the 19-year-old become a central figure in Erik ten Hag’s team this season and the academy graduate was rewarded with a senior England debut during March’s internationals.

The midfielder’s performances at club level have placed him in contention for a role with the Three Lions this summer, when Gareth Southgate’s team travel to Euro 2024 among the favourites for success.



Former Manchester United winger Sharpe has been impressed with Mainoo’s performances this season and insists the Stockport-born starlet is ready for the top level, though believes a rest could be more beneficial for Mainoo this summer if he is not part of Southgate’s first-choice side.

“Kobbie Mainoo, it’s so impressive when you see people like Kobbie come in and do the simple things well. He’s scored unbelievable goals against Wolves and Liverpool, I think he’s been such a special player. Long may that continue,” Sharpe exclusively told The Football Faithful, at an event hosted by sports betting side BetVictor

“He’s a young lad. On form it would be difficult not to play him (at Euro 2024). But I also think if Gareth Southgate is not 100% on playing him then I would half think about leaving him at home so he can rest.

“I know it’s not in Gareth Southgate’s interests to leave him at home so he’s better for Manchester United next season but there would be an argument for leaving him at home after what he’s gone through this year. But the way he’s played and performed, I think there’s definitely a place for him in the team.

“That would be an awesome line up with Bellingham and Rice.



 

“I think he can play against the best. We’ve seen him in big games this season when the games quick and hostile and he’s coped well. Whether he’s Gareth Southgate’s first choice in midfield, I don’t know, but I definitely think the way he has played and with his ability he can get into the starting team.”

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