Pranav Nair
Halloween clash could force Manchester United star Kobbie Mainoo relegated to the bench vs Newcastle United
Manchester United sensation Kobbie Mainoo was one of the players who were in contention to feature against Newcastle United later tonight.
The Red Devils face the Magpies in the fourth round of the Carabao Cup at Old Trafford. Erik ten Hag and Co will be keen to put the derby loss behind them and get back to winning ways.
Both sides will be expected to make changes to their starting XI for the game. In what is a repeat of last season’s Carabao Cup final, the home support will seek nothing less than a win.
With rotations expected, one player who was in with a reasonable chance of featuring was Kobbie Mainoo. The 18-year-old looked impressive in pre-season and appeared primed for a breakout campaign.
Unfortunately an injury forced him out and he has been on the mend since. Mainoo played for the academy side in their clash against Salford City in the Papa Johns Trophy on Halloween. With not much time to recover, it might not be the best foot forward to start him vs Newcastle.
That is not to say he cannot play a part in the game. Given the situation, the teenager could yet make the bench and come on if needed. As things stand, the Manchester Evening News claims that the player is unlikely to start.
Mainoo and Co were at the wrong end of the 4-3 scoreline against Salford. Shola Shoretire and Omari Forson were on the scoresheet for the Young Devils who fell to a 95th minute penalty by Matty Lund.
Fans will be waiting to see whether Mainoo will play any role later tonight. Playing against strong opposition is certainly the litmus test for development in young players.
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Mainoo has a long career ahead of him and will get plenty of opportunities to make an impact and take his game to the next level. Given that he recently returned from an injury, it is imperative that we show patience.
