“First name on teamsheet” – Man United squad urge Erik ten Hag to change decision

The Manchester United squad are in agreement that Kobbie Mainoo should be the ‘first name on the teamsheet’ following his impressive emergence in recent months.

Mainoo, 18, made his first start of the season in a 3-0 victory against Everton back in November last year. He has since started eight games for the club.

The teenager would’ve had an earlier impact had it not been for an injury sustained during United’s pre-season in the summer.

His start to life in the first-team has been in a difficult environment, but Mainoo has thrived and been one of the team’s best players.

In fact, reports from MailOnline state that Mainoo has kicked on to such an extent this season that the United squad think he should be one of the first names on the team sheet every week. 

The teenager’s technique and ‘cool temperament’ have been displayed on the training ground, with many senior players citing how he’s adapted to the first-team environment in a way many young players do not.

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This goes in contrast with recent comments from Erik ten Hag, who does not want to overplay the youngster when United are playing consistently.

“You have to accept that he cannot play three games or 90 minutes in the Premier League in seven days,” said Ten Hag earlier this month.

“You have to manage that or manage that process because you don’t want him to get injured again.”

Whilst Ten Hag’s approach is sensible, with multiple teenagers in recent years experiencing major injuries after overplaying, Mainoo’s quality is almost irreplaceable in the current United squad.

With the side only in two competitions now, and the squad fully behind their young teammate, Ten Hag will need to try and keep the teenager in the side as much as possible.