KOBBIE MAINOO has linked up with his new England team-mates for the first time at St George’s Park.
The Manchester United wonderkid, 18, received a belated call-up earlier today, having initially been in the Under-21s squad.
Mainoo beamed for pictures as he arrived at the national training centre.
The midfielder reported for duty alongside the rest of Gareth Southgate’s star-studded squad.
Harry Maguire could be seen with his arm around Jude Bellingham’s shoulder as the duo chatted with Bukayo Saka as fans optimistically called the Manchester United star “agent Harry”.
The likes of Marcus Rashford, John Stones, Kyle Walker, Phil Foden and Declan Rice also beamed as they arrived at St George’s Park.
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Mainoo isn’t the only Three Lions star hoping to make their senior debut during this international break.
Everton ace Jarrad Branthwaite could be seen conversing with Southgate having received his maiden call-up.
While Aston Villa’s Ezri Konsa also joined up with the team, as well as Newcastle’s Anthony Gordon.
Ivan Toney has reported for duty and could earn just his second cap.
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Liverpool star Joe Gomez, meanwhile, may earn his first cap since 2020.
Southgate, 53, was seen chatting with Jordan Henderson, who he recently jetted over to Amsterdam to watch in action for Ajax.
Tottenham star James Maddison and Chelsea’s Cole Palmer were also pictured arriving for the two friendlies.
While Jarrod Bowen will also be hoping for some game time on the international stage.
England host Brazil in a glamour friendly at Wembley on Saturday evening.
They will then welcome Belgium to the national stadium next Tuesday.
Prior to upgrading Mainoo to the senior squad, Southgate namechecked a number of emerging talents that he has his eyes on.
He said: “There are some players who are doing exceptionally well, the likes of Kobbie Mainoo, Harvey Elliott, Rico Lewis. Archie Gray is doing really well at Leeds.
“I think [Mainoo] is doing brilliantly for a young player.
“We’re never slow to put a young player into the seniors but he’s only had a handful of games, so you have to be very careful.
“We feel we should give him the space to develop at his own speed.
“But he’s having some wonderful experiences at Manchester United and seems a very good character.”
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Upon receiving his senior call-up, Mainoo said: “I was with the Under-21s and I got a text from [England assistant manager] Steve Holland telling me to come and meet him at reception.
“He just told me I’ve been called up… I don’t think it’s sunk in yet, but I’m excited! [My family] are all buzzing.”
Source: Soccer - thesun.co.uk
