Manchester United midfielder Kobbie Mainoo has been overlooked by England manager Thomas Tuchel for the third consecutive World Cup match, despite being one of the squad's most in-form players. The 21-year-old was an unused substitute in the final group game against Panama, with Jordan Henderson introduced in the 84th minute instead.
Henderson, 36, was a controversial inclusion in the squad after returning to the Premier League with Brentford last year. Mainoo, who did not start a Premier League game until Michael Carrick replaced Ruben Amorim in January, has been one of three outfield players yet to play a single minute at the tournament, alongside Trevoh Chalobah and Ivan Toney.
Speaking to reporters in the United States, Mainoo reflected on his difficult first half of the season: 'There were difficult times, but I tried to keep my focus on what was in front of me, take things day by day and just keep working my craft. Thankfully it has paid off.' He credited Carrick for his resurgence, saying: 'If he hadn't put me on the pitch, then I wouldn't have been here.'
Tuchel had insisted Mainoo would have a role to play, stating: 'We have Kobbie, who is still young and has won his titles.' However, the German has preferred Henderson's experience and leadership, with the former Liverpool captain said to be close to Jude Bellingham. Critics argue Mainoo's skillset would have been invaluable against Panama and Ghana, particularly when England struggled to break down a low block.
Mainoo's omission has raised eyebrows, especially given Henderson's limited impact at club level. The Manchester Evening News reports that Tuchel may yet introduce Mainoo in the knockout stages, but the midfielder will be disappointed not to have featured so far.
