Nicky Butt has sung the praises of a ‘phenomenal’ Manchester United star ahead of the Reds’ draw with West Ham United, highlighting his ‘big X-factor’.
Manchester United looked to make it five Premier League wins in a row under the management of Michael Carrick, although, sadly for the Reds, their efforts were thwarted.
United came up against a resilient West Ham United side, who had the bit between their teeth from minute one as they attempted to help their bids to avoid relegation.
The 18th-placed top-flight side took the lead early in the second half thanks to a well-taken Thomas Soucek finish, which he rolled coolly between Senne Lammens legs.
The Red Devils fought hard to get back into proceedings, and their efforts were rewarded in the final moments, as substitute Benjamin Šeško volleyed home a late equaliser.
Pundits highlight ‘old-school’ Mainoo
Despite the disappointing result for Carrick’s side, there is still much to cheer for United fans, who still sit fourth in the table, only two points behind Aston Villa in third.
One of the key positives for United has been their reborn young talent, Kobbie Mainoo, who, having not started a single league fixture under Amorim this season, has started all five since Carrick’s appointment.
Talking live on TNT Sports ahead of the match, former Red Nicky Butt was joined by Karen Carney in their appraisal of the English youngster, with the latter saying, “I love him, I always have done. He’s a big-game player as well.
“He’s come through the academy. Obviously, he’s next to a senior player in Casemiro, who’s been there and seen everything.
“I like how he wants to play forward. He’s not afraid. He’s old-school Man United – ‘How can I give it to my attacking players quickly?’
Mainoo’s ‘X-factor’
Carrying on in her praise of the 20-year-old United star, Carney added, “His work rate is phenomenal. He’s one of the players who has run the most in the last few games. It’s brilliant to see him back.”
Butt responded by saying, “I think with Kobbie, the only question isn’t his talent, it’s: can he get box to box?
“When he plays in a three, he doesn’t need to go box to box. He’s got that power and that pace to get past someone with ease. That’s a big X-factor.”
Clearly, the young United midfielder has got the support of Carrick, and he will be hoping to continue his resurgence as he bids to enter Thomas Tuchel’s plans for the upcoming 2026 World Cup.
While Bruno Fernandes has certinaly been United’s bona fide big-game player across the last six years, Mainoo is also emerging as a trusted and talented young star who can thrive when the lights are brightest.
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