Former Manchester United midfielder Nicky Butt has urged Kobbie Mainoo to refuse to play in England’s World Cup third-place decider against France on Saturday, labeling the match a 'nonsense game'. Mainoo, 21, has not played a single minute in England’s seven World Cup matches so far, despite being a standout performer for Manchester United under Michael Carrick in the second half of last season.
Butt's strong advice to Mainoo
'I do not know what is going on there, there’s something not quite right with it,' Butt said. 'Now they’re going to play the bomb squad in the stupid third-place game. I’d just refuse to play if I was Kobbie Mainoo. I’d say I was injured. It’s a nonsense game, especially when you’ve been treated like that.' Butt emphasized the risk of injury in a match he considers a 'pointless jumped-up friendly', potentially jeopardizing Mainoo’s entire season.
Tuchel under fire
Butt also called for Thomas Tuchel’s sacking as England manager, criticizing his negative tactics in the semi-final loss to Argentina. 'There’s no way he can stay on. Not a cat in hell’s chance after that,' Butt said. He suggested that if Tuchel remains, FA technical director John McDermott should also be dismissed. Butt named Eddie Howe and Mauricio Pochettino as preferred replacements, noting Pochettino’s strong relationship with McDermott from their time at Tottenham.
Butt dismissed the possibility of Pep Guardiola taking over immediately, as Guardiola recently stated he needs a rest from football. However, he endorsed Howe as a 'brilliant' option and praised Pochettino as a 'very, very good manager' who plays attractive football. Butt expressed surprise that managers like Tuchel change their approach when taking the England job, saying 'I can’t put my finger on why.'
