Kobbie Mainoo calls on England to 'change the future' ahead of Slovakia Euro 2024 last-16 tie
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Published 29/06/2024 at 14:19 GMT
Kobbie Mainoo believes that he and his fellow England team-mates can "change the future" and end England's long wait for major trophies. The 19-year-old could start for England in their round of 16 tie with Slovakia after impressing in the second half of the draw with Slovenia in England's final group game.
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England midfielder Kobbie Mainoo believes that he and his England team-mates can "change the future" and put an end to England's long wait for a major international trophy.
After a strong cameo against Slovenia in his team's final group game, Mainoo looks likely to start for Gareth Southgate's side in their Euro 2024 last-16 clash Slovakia on Sunday, and add the impetus that England have been largely lacking in the tournament so far.
Alongside Mainoo are the likes of Cole Palmer and Adam Wharton, who many believe are names that could lead England's new generation of footballers.
“Obviously we’re aware of the past but now we’re in a position where we can change the future for us and hopefully there’s trophies in that future," Mainoo told BBC Sport.
His exceptional performances for Manchester United saw Mainoo make his debut against Brazil in March as a substitute. And after helping to rouse England in the second half against Slovenia, the clamour for him to start against Slovakia is rising.
"I tried to get on the ball as much as possible, tried to link the play and try play forward as much as possible and do positive things with the team," the Stockport-born midfielder said.
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"I try and play my game, which is just getting on the ball and trying to have control in midfield.
"The other two midfielders that have played are all great players and bring different things. When I play, I'm just trying to do my thing and help the team."
When the youngster entered the fray at half-time against Slovenia after a lacklustre first period, an element of calmness seemed to wash over the pitch with his presence.
Paul Scholes has been one of the voices calling for the United player to see more pitch time in Southgate's side.
"I try to feed the forwards and help move the ball around well. If it's a good reaction, then I'm happy," Mainoo said.
Southgate added another injection of talent in that second half when he brought on Cole Palmer, whose introduction instantly sparked some much-needed forward momentum.
"Amazing," Mainoo said about his good friend Palmer. "Everyone's seen it in the Prem this season how good of a player he is. When he came on he told me he was going to make an impact.
"He always looked dangerous when he was on the ball, that's a big part of his game."
So, has Mainoo done enough to convince Southgate to start him this Sunday?
"I hope so. Every time I get on the pitch I try my hardest and in training, I've been trying hard as well. We'll see."
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