100% dribbles, six final-third passes: ‘Special’ United talent picks up where he left off with stellar showing on int’l duty

In what will come as no surprise to any Manchester United fan, Kobbie Mainoo put in a superb shift at the heart of England’s midfield last night.

Most supporters would’ve much rather the youngster be kept at Carrington and awarded some much-needed rest, as it’s been non-stop for him ever since he was granted his maiden Premier League start at Goodison Park last November – and that’s presumably why his error vs Liverpool wasn’t dwelled on anywhere near the same as Casemiro’s two first-half mistakes

However, interim Three Lions boss Lee Carsley opted to include Mainoo in his first-ever squad since taking the reins after Gareth Southgate’s departure. You can’t really blame him, either, as any manager would jump at the chance of having such a ‘special’ talent at their disposal.

Read more: PL outfit now ‘almost guaranteed’ to pay £34m for ‘unique talent’ Ten Hag was told he couldn’t sign

How Mainoo fared on England duty

The 19-year-old featured from the off and played 77 minutes as England overturned the Republic of Ireland 2-0 at the Aviva Stadium in Dublin, completing 100 per cent of his dribbles and 91 per cent of his passes in only the first 45 minutes. He also played six passes into the final third, per StatmanDave.

Kobbie Mainoo completed 100% of his dribbles, 91% of his passes & played 6 passes into the final third in the first half vs. Ireland.

Special, special footballer. 🤩🤩🤩 pic.twitter.com/Br3kUMLPfl

— Statman Dave (@StatmanDave) September 7, 2024