Kobbie Mainoo is PROMOTED to England’s senior squad – despite no players dropping out – as Gareth Southgate recognises 18-year-old’s brilliant Man United form

Manchester United star Kobbie Mainoo has been handed his first ever senior England call-up ahead of their upcoming friendlies.

The 18 year old was initially part of the Under-21 squad but has been drafted into Gareth Southgate’s group for their matches later this month.

All other 25 players reported to St. George’s Park on Tuesday ahead of the forthcoming internationals against Brazil and Belgium.

United midfielder Mainoo has previously represented England at U17 through to U19 level – but is yet to be capped at U20 or U21 level.

Mail Sport reported last month that Mainoo was planning to keep his international options open amid interest from Ghana. 

The 18-year-old reported to St George’s Park on Tuesday, after Gareth Southgate’s decision

The Stockport-born midfield player qualifies for Ghana through his parents, with Ghana FA Board member Randy Abbey telling The Times that they are hopeful of persuading Mainoo to switch his allegiance to the Black Stars.

However, those hopes have faded as England have swooped in offered the teenager a chance to make his senior international debut later this month. 

Under FIFA eligibility rules, a player can change their nationality at any time if they have only played in friendlies, while those aged under 21 can also switch after three years if they have played fewer than three competitive matches. 

Mainoo has made 20 appearance for United this season, including their dramatic 4-3 win over rivals Liverpool in their FA Cup quarter-final clash. 

England have friendlies against Brazil and Belgium, and warm-up games against Bosnia and Herzegovina and Iceland in June.

They will then begin their next UEFA Nations League campaign with matches against Republic of Ireland and Finland in September. 

Mainoo has only represented England’s Under-17 and Under-19 sides in the past

Southgate has called upon the youngster despite initially leaving him out of their plans

Former England international Ian Wright recently argued that Mainoo must be selected by Southgate for the upcoming matches. 

Wright posted on X (formerly Twitter): ‘Kobbie Mainoo has to be in the next England squad. Such maturity in chaotic conditions that we’ve not seen from a England player in a long time. Impressed every time I watch him.’ 

Gary Lineker also supported the call to include Mainoo in the squad, replying: ‘Agreed @IanWright0. What a fabulous young player.’