Manchester United’s Kobbie Mainoo plans for Carabao Cup fourth round become clear

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Kobbie Mainoo looks highly unlikely to be included as a starter for the Carabao Cup fourth round.

Manchester United have kept their cards close to their chest all day ahead of the Carabao Cup fourth round match against Newcastle.

Erik ten Hag did not even hold a press conference, unwilling to spend time with the media and face up to growing questions about his management in light of the defeat to City.

One of the key lingering questions was about Kobbie Mainoo, the exciting Manchester United teenager everybody wants to see.

Kobbie Mainoo on road to comeback

Kobbie Mainoo has been making a comeback since suffering an injury in pre-season when he was on the verge of establishing himself as a first team regular.

He made his comeback in the UEFA Youth League last week against Copenhagen, playing 45 minutes.

Mainoo was not used in the under-21s on Friday night against Fulham, and made the first team bench for the derby against City. This raised the possibility he could be utilised in the fourth round against Newcastle on Wednesday night. But this won’t be a starting role.

Kobbie Mainoo plans become clear

Manchester United’s under-21s were in action on Tuesday night, kicking off at 7.30pm against Salford City in the EFL Trophy.

Kobbie Mainoo was named in the starting line-up. So too was Dan Gore, who featured in the Carabao Cup third round as a substitute.

With just over 24 hours between games, this is a firm indication Kobbie Mainoo will not be considered as a starting option for Manchester United against Newcastle tomorrow.

This means Manchester United boss Erik ten Hag is content with his alternative options, and does not feel the need to rush Mainoo into the team.

Mainoo ended up playing all 90 minutes in the EFL Trophy game, providing two assists, and impressing supporters. It was a very impressive performance, and a good sign for the future – but playing the full game does mean he is even more unlikely to make the bench against Newcastle.

Last season Mainoo made his Manchester United debut in the Carabao Cup quarter-finals against Charlton last season, featuring as a starter. United need to beat Newcastle tomorrow to reach the same stage.