Erik ten Hag says Man Utd star is helping Kobbie Mainoo in the dressing room

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Erik ten Hag has explained which player Kobbie Mainoo can learn from for Manchester United.

Since breaking through into the Manchester United first team earlier this season, midfielder Kobbie Mainoo has been a revelation for the Red Devils and has firmly cemented his place as a first-team starter.

Mainoo has offered the technical ability as well as the composure on the ball that has been so lacking for the Red Devils in the midfield with United constantly turning over possession in the middle of the park.

The 18-year-old has been sensational and he is reportedly in line for a new contract for the Red Devils but one senior United star could be key in helping the midfielder, according to Erik ten Hag.

Ten Hag on player helping Mainoo

Speaking in his press conference ahead of the game against Aston Villa, the Dutchman has revealed that Casemiro, who has struggled this campaign, could be key for the midfielder’s development.

“I am happy he is back,” Ten Hag said of Casemiro, as per The Guardian. “For Kobbie, he can learn a lot from him. Kobbie is very coachable and Casemiro has so much experience, Kobbie will learn a lot from it and that will accelerate his development. I am happy to have him and when they play together they can benefit from each other.”

When pushed further and asked if the two have a strong bond, Ten Hag said: “Absolutely, Casemiro takes that responsibility, he takes it to him, he’s talking to him. I see it in the dressing room, I see it on the pitch, on the training ground, in games. He is looking at his own game but he is looking to help and support Kobbie.”

Mainoo and Casemiro

There is no question that since Casemiro has returned to the United first team, the Red Devils midfield has looked much more stable and consistent.

Despite the Brazilian’s inconsistencies this season, his return to the first team has brought the best out of Mainoo, who has been pushed forward as a result of the 31-year-old’s return.

His stunning winning goal against Wolves in the dramatic 4-3 victory was a testament to this and the teenager could well be key going forward for the rest of this campaign for Ten Hag.