Ruben Amorim has broken his silence on Kobbie Mainoo as the Manchester United midfielder starts his first game of the season against Grimsby Town.
Kobbie Mainoo had been left on the bench for Manchester United’s opening two Premier League fixtures this season.
At Craven Cottage, shortly after the travelling supporters called for their side to “attack, attack, attack,” Ruben Amorim instead introduced two centre-backs, leaving the Academy graduate unused once again.
That decision has fuelled uncertainty over Mainoo’s place in Amorim’s plans, with reports suggesting a potential move away before the transfer deadline has not been ruled out. While it seems unlikely that an exit occurs, the midfielder is clearly not happy with his current role.
The manager has explained that the youngster is competing for the same role as Bruno Fernandes – a difficult task given the captain’s regular place in the starting XI.
However, Mainoo is handed an opportunity to impress tonight, as he is named in the line-up for United’s second-round Carabao Cup tie against Grimsby Town.
Amorim breaks silence on Mainoo ahead of Grimsby clash
Asked ahead of the game what he expects for Mainoo in the game, Amorim explained how high his expectations are for the player.
More importantly, while the Portuguese boss claimed once again that he is fighting with Fernandes for a space in the team, he also stated that they can play together in the line-up.
“The same as every player in that position,” Amorim told Sky Sports. “I expect a lot from Kobbie Mainoo and again people think that sometimes you need to just give.
“I think it’s important for Kobbie to fight for his place. I believe a lot in Kobbie – more than everybody thinks – so I expect a lot from him.
“I think he’s playing in one position, he’s fighting with Bruno. They can play together. We need to improve that position and you can see it against Fulham, so I just expect the best from Kobbie, the same as everyone.”
Amorim wants Mainoo to keep high levels
It is important to hear Amorim say that Fernandes and Mainoo can play together – there is no problem with the no.37 being on the bench or out of the team but he needs to be able to come into the side.
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That wouldn’t happen if there was simply direct competition between them – and some people actually think they could be the best midfielder pairing.
Amorim’s words suggest that he rates Mainoo very highly but wants to ensure that his levels do not drop. But we also have to see evidence of that on the pitch.
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