Manchester United youngsters Kobbie Mainoo and Dan Gore both impressed in a EFL Trophy clash against Salford City.
Two late penalties saw Salford City come from behind to beat Manchester United’s under-21 side 4-3.
It was a harsh result on Manchester United’s young players, who are now eliminated from the EFL Trophy.
Kobbie Mainoo, returning from injury, had helped the young team be much more competitive than in the last game against Bolton.
How Kobbie Mainoo and Dan Gore played
There was a lot of attention on young midfielders Kobbie Mainoo and Dan Gore, who have both made their first team debuts.
Their involvement in this game means they are unlikely to feature in the Carabao Cup tomorrow but this was a game they both came out of well and enhanced their chances.
Kobbie Mainoo stats:
- 90 minutes played
- 89% passes complete
- Two assists
- Two successful dribbles
- One interception
Dan Gore stats:
- 90 minutes played
- 91% passes complete
- One assist
- Five duels won
- One interception
Both players gave a good account of themselves in terms of being able to keep possession and showing their creative quality. They provided three assists combined, seizing the initiative to get forward and influence the game.
Mainoo’s first assist was a lovely flick with the outside of his right boot, setting up a strike from close range for Shola Shoretire. It demonstrated a confidence to his game which was on show throughout the match.
He was happy dropping deep to collect the ball from goalkeeper Elyh Harrison, or drifting out wide into space to receive it. He was just as happy popping up in the opposition box to impact the game there.
His second assist he used his strength to hold off a challenge and lay the ball off to his teammate, with Omari Forson scoring from the edge of the box.
First team boss Erik ten Hag will have been impressed. This was a message sent from both players that they will be ready to step up as and when they are needed.
United supporters on social media were going crazy for Mainoo. Paul Pogba’s name was trending, with fans making comparisons to the Frenchman’s talent.
Omari Forson and Shola Shoretire show quality
If watching eyes were on Gore and particularly Mainoo, it was Shola Shoretire who grabbed the attention with a goal in each half. Omari Forson scored a goal in between, he is the under-21s top scorer so far this season.
Both players may be in need of a loan spell in January to progress their chances. Mainoo and possibly Gore could find themselves fast-tracked into the first team.
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