World press stunned by Kobbie Mainoo’s full England debut and dub Man Utd ace ‘the jewel missing from Three Lions crown’
KOBBIE MAINOO has gathered plaudits at home and abroad after his brilliant England debut.
The Manchester United wonderkid, 18, was handed his first Three Lions start by Gareth Southgate against Belgium on Tuesday night.
Mainoo produced a typically composed display, deservedly scooping the player of the match award for his efforts in the 2-2 draw.
After the game Southgate, 53, was asked what he told the teenager as he came off the pitch, to which he replied: “Just that he has had a fabulous week with us.
“Everything that we’ve seen with his club, he reproduced in an England shirt which isn’t always the case.
“Very calm, receives the ball so well under pressure, strong, so we are a little bit more open playing that way but the benefits with the ball were clear to see.”
Mainoo’s performance also made waves overseas.
Today’s edition of Spanish paper Marca includes an article about the midfielder.
They described him as: “The jewel that was missing from the crown.”
Marca have taken particular interest in Jude Bellingham since the England superstar’s summer move to Real Madrid.
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Mainoo has impressed the 20-year-old with his England emergence.
After scoring the Three Lions’ late leveller against Belgium, Bellingham said: “Kobbie Mainoo is very good.
“I know how hard it can be when there’s a clamour and people put a lot of pressure on you… but he’s definitely a brilliant player.
“He’s going to have an amazing future at Man United and hopefully for England as well.”
Mainoo has also received plenty of comments on Instagram following his impressive England debut.
Declan Rice wrote: “Levels! See you soon.”
While Alejandro Garnacho commented: “simply incredible.”
Marcus Rashford called him: “Lil bro.”
And Rio Ferdinand added: “Landed.”