‘Impressed every time’: Arsenal legend indirectly tells Southgate he ‘has to’ include Mainoo in next England squad

Arsenal and England legend Ian Wright has admitted that Kobbie Mainoo must receive his maiden England call-up at the next possible opportunity.

The 18-year-old starlet is in action tonight after being granted an 11th consecutive start in all competitions against Luton Town, and put his senior counterpart Casemiro to shame at times with his composure and elegance while the Brazilian was lunging into tackles left, right and centre.

As has been the case every time Mainoo has taken to the field, he’s received endless plaudits from supporters, former players, commentators and pundits. People just can’t believe how the midfielder looks so mature beyond his years when involved in such high-stakes clashes.

Wright demands a call-up for Mainoo

Wright is the latest to add his name to the list of Mainoo’s admirers, as he took to X to indirectly send a message to Gareth Southgate regarding the teenager’s potential inclusion in the Three Lions squad.

He said: “Kobbie Mainoo has to be in the next England squad. Such maturity in chaotic conditions that we’ve not seen from an England player in a long time. Impressed every time I watch him.”

England have two friendlies penned in for March as they continue their Euro 2024 preparation; they take on Brazil on March 23 and Belgium on March 26.