Manchester United starlet in line for first-ever senior international call-up after outperforming midfield counterparts

Gareth Southgate is reportedly considering granting Manchester United starlet Kobbie Mainoo his first-ever England call-up in March.

The Three Lions take on two friendlies against Brazil and Belgium next month as they begin preparations for this year’s Euro 2024 tournament, in which they will again be considered one of the major favourites having made the Euro 2020 final.

Southgate, while blessed with some of the most prolific talents in world football at his disposal, has some incredibly tough decisions to make in terms of who will be boarding that plane to Germany this summer.

That’s why the forthcoming fixtures will prove crucial in aiding the manager’s decision – and Mainoo could well be a part of that. As per HITC, the 18-year-old’s scintillating form at club level has caught the eye of Southgate and thrown him into consideration for a maiden call-up. Currently, he has represented his nation at under-17, under-18 and under-19 levels.

Mainoo has quickly become one of England’s most exciting prospects

Mainoo’s performances have seen him receive plaudits from his manager, teammates, pundits and even neutrals. He looks mature beyond his years when on the pitch and has left such a lasting impression on Erik ten Hag that he now ranks higher than senior midfield counterparts Scott McTominay and Christian Eriksen in the pecking order.

It’s also not controversial in the slightest to suggest that the Carrington graduate is outperforming England regulars Jordan Henderson and Kalvin Phillips.

Meanwhile, reports have suggested that the Ghanaian FA are attempting to convince Mainoo to switch allegiances and represent their national team instead.