Gareth Southgate told Kobbie Mainoo ‘has to be in next England squad’ as he boasts trait ‘not seen in a long time’

FOOTBALL fans and Arsenal legend Ian Wright have urged Gareth Southgate to pick Manchester United midfielder Kobbie Mainoo in his next England squad.

The Red Devils youngster, 18, has quickly become one of Erik ten Hag's most important players since December.

He has started each of Man Utd's last nine Premier League games and impressed yet again on Sunday afternoon during their 2-1 win over Luton.

Mainoo has only played 17 first-team games for the club since making his debut last year, scoring two goals including a dramatic late winner against Wolves.

But some already believe he is ready to receive an England call-up for next month's matches against Brazil and Belgium.

Arsenal legend Wright tweeted: "Kobbie Mainoo has to be in the next England squad.

"Such maturity in chaotic conditions that we've not seen from a England player in a long time. Impressed every time I watch him."

And a host of fans supported the Gunners icon's point of view.

One said: "Mainoo doesn’t just get in the England squad, he should be in the first 11."

Another added: "Kobbie Mainoo should be starting at the Euros. He is the profile England have lacked in major tournaments."

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A third replied: "Mainoo is a serious player. Already looks like he should be making the England squad, possibly even the starting XI."

While a fourth responded: "Mainoo should be well ahead of Phillips and Henderson in the England squad."

Declan Rice and Jude Bellingham are expected to start as two of Southgate's three-man midfield at the Euros this summer.

But a number of names remain in the frame for the final position including Kalvin Phillips, Jordan Henderson, Conor Gallagher and Trent Alexander-Arnold.

With questions around Phillips, who was sent off for West Ham on Saturday, and Henderson, who is trying to settle at Ajax, Mainoo's hopes are only boosted.

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