Kobbie Mainoo is set to be handed his first England U21 call up next month
Manchester United’s Kobbie Mainoo is in line for a first call up to England’s Under 21s next month.
The central midfielder has been a shining light for Erik ten Hag in his breakout season, making 14 appearances since forcing a way into the team three months ago.
The FA are aware of Ghana’s interest in Mainoo switching international allegiances and want him involved for the Under-21 European Qualifiers against Azerbaijan and Luxembourg.
Lee Carsley has been paying close attention to the 18-year-old’s progress in recent weeks, with senior boss Gareth Southgate also taking in his performance at Aston Villa last Sunday.
England have a recent history of promoting teenagers at the very start of their careers, with Manchester City’s Rico Lewis earning recognition last year before a quick senior call this term.
Mainoo has come through the FA’s system having already featured for England’s Under 17s, 18s and 19s. There is room for an all-action midfielder in Carsley’s side and confidence that the United youngster will opt for England over Ghana.
United have not been blessed with many young stars in the Under-21 setup over recent seasons, with Mason Greenwood the last regular to earn caps.
Brandon Williams was only given a solitary appearance and James Garner rose to prominence following a loan spell at Nottingham Forest.
Chelsea’s Carney Chukwuemeka and Alex Scott at Bournemouth are both back on the Under-21 radar after struggling with injuries. Fitness issues have previously seen the pair pull out of international duty.
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