Kobbie Mainoo started for Manchester United under-21s in the EFL Trophy to make his second start since injury.
Manchester United’s last EFL Trophy match saw the under-21 team battered 8-1 against Bolton.
Last night the young side were far more competitive. They went down 4-3 against Salford City after conceding two late penalties, but had been the better team and had been winning 3-2 until the 86th minute. It was a far stronger performance, and no shame in losing a tight game.
A key factor in the two very markedly different performances may have been the presence of Kobbie Mainoo, who stepped up his return from injury as a starter, playing a full 90 minutes, adding to the 45 he got in the UEFA Youth League last week.
Kobbie Mainoo assists twice
Shola Shoretire scored two goals either side of a strike from Omari Forson as Manchester United’s under-21 side took a 3-2 lead.
United fielded a midfield of Kobbie Mainoo, Dan Gore and Toby Collyer, and the trio all performed well, with United enjoying more possession and attempting eight shots on target to Salford’s six.
Mainoo starting the game was an indication he won’t be starting against Newcastle in the Carabao Cup tomorrow, instead this was an important test in his recovery from injury as United’s coaching staff get him up to full fitness before rushing him into the first team.
The 18-year-old looked comfortable in possession, completing 33 of 37 passes attempted, and crucially, he provided two assists.
Mainoo created three chances in total, two of which were converted into goals.
If United’s staff were looking for a sign Mainoo is ready – they got one.
Manchester United fans react
Manchester United fans have high hopes for Kobbie Mainoo, and there was a big positive reaction to his performance.
One supporter wrote on social media: “I know we really are trying to not put pressure on Mainoo but goddammit the boy is good.”
Another added: “Kobbie Mainoo is what we are missing in our midfield. He’s so calm on the ball.”
A third fan wrote: “He is levels above the rest get Mainoo in the first team now.”
There was more of the same. Another supporter confidently said: “The moment Mainoo makes the xi, he won’t leave it for a long time.”
A further comment added: “Mainoo is going straight to the top,” with another writing: “Maybe Mainoo is the missing piece to our midfield puzzle.”
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