How Kobbie Mainoo learned about England call-up as Man United star's text message chat revealed

Manchester United starlet Kobbie Mainoo has opened up on how he first learned of his late call-up to England's senior squad.

Mainoo has been added to Gareth Southgate's squad for the Three Lions' upcoming fixtures during the international break. England will have friendly matches against Brazil and Belgium over the next week in preparation for the European Championships this summer.

Erik ten Hag has handed Mainoo his first-team opportunities at United ever since he first arrived at the club in 2022, starting with his senior debut in January last year in the Carabao Cup.

Mainoo has made 23 appearances for United this season in midfield and has often been a regular starter in Ten Hag's line-up. The form from the 18-year-old has seen Mainoo handed his first call-up to the England squad, where he will hope to get valuable experience in the games against Brazil and Belgium.

READ MORE: Manchester United receive Luke Shaw injury hint as player joins England camp

READ MORE: Erik ten Hag's popularity as Manchester United manager has soared for two reasons

After initially being named in England's Under-21 squad, it was eventually decided that Mainoo would be called up to the senior squad. Now the United midfielder has explained how he heard the news from assistant manager Steve Holland.

"It's a bit different," Mainoo said in a video posted on England's YouTube channel, which showed his arrival at St George's Park this week. "I got called up to the Under-21s and then I got a text from Steve Holland and he told me to meet him at reception.

"And he just told me that I'd been called up and will be with the squad for the week.

"I don't think it's really sunk in yet, but I'm excited for the week ahead."

"Yeah, I have," Mainoo added