Kobbie Mainoo sends two Euro 2024 messages to Gareth Southgate amid England problems

Kobbie Mainoo has played just nine minutes at Euro 2024 for England so far but has sent an important message to Gareth Southgate.

Mainoo, 19, earned a call-up to the tournament after an excellent season with Manchester United, which ended with an FA Cup final-winning goal.

Alongside Crystal Palace’s Adam Wharton, the 19-year-old is an option that Gareth Southgate has to bring important qualities into his midfield.

However, so far, England have been poor in their opening two games while Southgate has tested out right-back Trent Alexander-Arnold in the midfield.

It is an experiment that has not worked thus far and Southgate now could look towards one of the more natural options for that position next to Declan Rice.

Mainoo has reminded his manager that he is prepared to come into the team. The teenager recognises the quality within the squad and is awaiting his chance.

“I’m ready to play, whether that’s off the bench or starting,” he told reporters.

“Obviously, there are other great midfielders in the squad in the Premier League or abroad like Jude [Bellingham]. I’m trying to train hard and be ready when I’m called upon”

Importantly, while Southgate has questioned whether the squad has a ‘natural replacement’ for Manchester City and West Ham flop Kalvin Phillips, Mainoo has told his manager that he suits playing the role next to Declan Rice.

“Dec is such a good player, reliable and dominate in the midfield. When I did get to play with him it’s always a joy to have someone so strong with the ball next to you,” added Mainoo.

“[Playing alongside Rice], it frees me up a lot and allows me to go forward and attack and trust that he’s there. It’s a dream.”

The United midfielder could get his chance to start against Slovenia on Tuesday, with England in need of a win to ensure they top their group.

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