'An honour': Man Utd star aims for place in Euro 2024 squad after surprise international call-up
Kobbie Mainoo received his first call-up to Gareth Southgate’s England squad for the upcoming friendlies against Brazil and Belgium earlier this week.
When he travelled to St George’s Park, the 18-year-old was set to join the U21s but was promoted to the senior squad.
The talented midfielder has yet to make his national team debut, but he is already aiming for a place at the 2024 European Championship in Germany.
“That’s the end goal of the season – to get into that squad,” Mainoo said (as per the Daily Mail).
“It would be an honour to be able to make the plane. There’s a lot of time between now and then. If I go back to my club and perform well and do what I need to do, then hopefully it’ll all align.
“But it’s been a pretty mad couple of days. Sunday was obviously a great game, and then to get called up to the Under 21s, obviously I was excited to come.
“Getting down here and realising that I was with the first team was amazing. I was shocked and happy – it’s been a whirlwind of emotions.”
The teenager has already established himself as a key member of Erik ten Hag’s team this season.
He has made 20 appearances across all competitions this campaign, scoring twice.
The youngster is calm and composed on the ball and shows maturity beyond his years.
He was one of United’s best players in Sunday’s FA Cup win over Liverpool at Old Trafford.
Mainoo completed 100% of his tackles and dribbles. He also made a key pass and two interceptions.
He deserves his first England call-up after his excellent performances for the Red Devils this season and should be on the place to Germany.
Stats from Sofascore.com