Gary Lineker leads calls for Kobbie Mainoo to start for England at Euro 2024

Mainoo put in a man-of-the-match display on Tuesday night

Just days after making his debut against Brazil, Mainoo was thrusted into the starting XI against Belgium and formed a midfield trio of himself, Declan Rice and Jude Bellingham - a partnership that has England set for years to come.

The 18-year-old rose to the task however and was exceptional again and was awarded the man-of-the-match award in the 2-2 draw.

Youri Tielemans put the away side ahead twice but his efforts were cancelled out twice, once by Ivan Toney in the first half and another with the very last kick of the game from Bellingham to ensure a share of the spoils.

'A superb first start'

When Gareth Southgate originally named his England squad many were disappointed to see Mainoo only included at Under-21 level but Southgate opted to reverse his decision and promote him immediately.

That decision has well and truly been justified by Mainoo's two performances and Three Lions supporters are calling for the Manchester United star to be a first-choice starter this summer.

Gary Lineker lead the calls, writing on X: "A superb first start by Kobbie Mainoo for @England. He’s not only played himself into the squad for the Euros but quite possibly the starting lineup. Well played young man."

Another fan commented: "Impressive display from Kobbie Mainoo on his first England start. A profile like his brings a lot of balance to the midfield with Jude/ Rice. Could honestly see Southgate starting him at EURO24.

"A full England debut of outrageous insouciance. Kobbie Mainoo has shown he should not just be in England's Euros squad this summer, but the starting XI," added Oliver Brown of The Telegraph.

"Kobbie Mainoo absolutely has to start in this England midfield in the Euros. He’s a generational talent," wrote another.

Teammates admire performance

One player who knows about being placed into the international spotlight at such a young age is Bellingham and the Real Madrid star has backed Mainoo to have a glittering career.

He told the media: " Kobbie Mainoo is very good. "I know how hard it can be when there's a clamour and people put a lot of pressure on you… but he's definitely a brilliant player.

"He’s going to have an amazing future at Man United and hopefully for England as well."

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