Erik ten Hag promotes little known 17-year-old Kobbie Mainoo to first team for Man Utd clash against Newcastle
ERIK TEN HAG has named 17-year-old starlet Kobbie Mainoo on the bench for today's clash against Newcastle.
The teenage midfielder is in the senior squad for the first time after impressing for Manchester United U21s this season.
Red Devils boss Ten Hag is also a little light in midfield with Scott McTominay suspended and Christian Eriksen out through illness.
So Stockport-born Mainoo get his chance on the bench this afternoon.
Elsewhere Ten Hag has started Cristiano Ronaldo in the Premier League for just the second time this season, with Fred coming into midfield to partner Casemiro.
Highly rated teenager Mainoo has already trained with the first team this season.
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And with Ten Hag and Co facing three Prem games in the next six days, Mainoo could even get a chance to make his senior debut.
In a hectic week the Red Devils host Newcastle this afternoon before another home clash with Tottenham in midweek, and then a trip to Stamford Bridge next Saturday.
With the games coming thick and fast, Mainoo could find himself thrust into the action.
United fans on social media were excited about the prospect of potentially seeing the youngster play.
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Reacting to the squad to face Newcastle, one wrote: "Excited that 17yr old Kobbie Mainoo is on the bench. The kid is destined for greater heights."
Another said: "Kobbie Mainoo, remember the name."
And a third commented: "Mainoo on the bench. Thank you Ten Hag."
Mainoo has scored twice and provided one assist in just seven Premier League 2 games for the U21s this season.