‘What a player’ – Declan Rice makes feelings clear after Kobbie Mainoo handed England debut

‘What a player’ – Declan Rice makes feelings clear after Kobbie Mainoo handed England debut

Kobbie Mainoo only made his first Premier League start back in November but the teenager has now already earned an England cap after coming off the bench against Brazil

Declan Rice shared his love for Kobbie Mainoo after the Manchester United midfielder made his England debut against Brazil on Saturday.

Mainoo, 18, who has impressed during his breakthrough campaign at United, earned his first Three Lions call-up last week having initially being named in the Under 21 squad.

After being named on the bench, the teenage sensation replaced Conor Gallagher and came on for the final 15 minutes at Wembley.

Despite playing for less than a quarter of the match, Mainoo didn’t look out of place and showed the calmness, composure and technical ability he has at his disposal.

The United youngster slotted in nicely alongside Rice in central midfield, with Phil Foden ahead of them in the No.10 role.

Reacting to his England debut in an Instagram post, Mainoo said: “Special feeling making my senior @England debut at Wembley and in front of my family. A moment I will never forget. Now we bounce back and refocus for Tuesday,” followed by a love heart emoji.

United captain Bruno Fernandes added: “First of many,” alongside a raising hands emoji. Harry Maguire said: “Deserved mate,” while Luke Shaw commented:

“What a player.” Cole Palmer, James Maddison, Teden Mengi and Alejandro Garnacho also congratulated Mainoo.

Southgate explained the decision to bring on Mainoo, who was only bumped up to the senior side after a flurry of injuries in the camp. “Kobbie was a chance to dip his toes,” the England boss said