Kobbie Mainoo has burst onto the scene for both Manchester United and England at just 18 years old, showing a glimpse of the future for both club and country.
Mainoo has played in 17 Premier League matches so far this season, plus a handful of cup appearances. Additionally, the teenager made his full England debut last month, appearing against Belgium and Brazil.
It's been a whirlwind for the youngster, who has drawn plaudits for his composed play in midfield, and now a former longtime member of a Man United rival has joined the chorus of praise for Mainoo.
Speaking to Paddy Power, former Liverpool defender Mark Lawrenson declared Mainoo as the top midfielder in the Red Devils' ranks already, but stressed that it's not necessarily a good thing.
“Kobbie Mainoo gives me the impression that he’s not worried about the hype and media around him, he’s just a really good player," Lawrenson said. "He’s Manchester United’s best midfield player at his age, so you’ve just got to be careful with these guys.
“If United had a bigger and better squad, he wouldn’t have played so many games this season, which says a lot that he’s 18 years of age and they need him every game because the other midfielders aren’t good enough, which is a statement in itself for Manchester United.”
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