The latest Manchester United news as Manchester Evening News readers give their verdict on what Ruben Amorim should do with Kobbie Mainoo after Casemiro's red card.
Young Manchester United star Kobbie Mainoo is yet to make a Premier League start under Ruben Amorim this season, but he is refusing to give up as he chases a place in the first eleven. Some fans in the Manchester Evening News comments section believe that Amorim should take notice of the midfielder's positive response.
The England international has fallen down the pecking order during Amorim's time at United, with the Portuguese boss settling on a preferred midfield duo of Bruno Fernandes and Casemiro. Speaking about Mainoo's struggle to get into the team, Amorim said that he was now in direct competition with Fernandes, who will be very difficult to displace as the captain.
The Manchester Evening News understands that Mainoo has responded positively since being denied a loan move during the summer transfer window. He is determined to claim a spot in the starting lineup and the England squad again, working hard at Carrington and with a private coach during the international break.
He has even hired a new chef at home to improve his game. Mainoo could get an opportunity to show what he can do in the near future due to Casemiro's suspension following a red card against Chelsea on Saturday, though Manuel Ugarte is another potential midfield option for Amorim to consider amid a midfield selection dilemma.
Some fans hope the best is yet to come from Mainoo. Reader Jungle Jerry says: "Let's be honest here. Mainoo hasn't set the stage on fire since the end of last season. Amorim is right to challenge Mainoo to do even better.
"Mainoo has to reinvent himself as a deep-lying playmaker. To be like Pirlo, Alonso, or a modern-day Rodri. He needs to learn how to connect play, control the tempo, and create goal-scoring opportunities for the forwards. Having the knack to score goals would help too.We use your sign-up to provide content in ways you've consented to and improve our understanding of you. This may include adverts from us and third parties based on our knowledge of you. More info
"The ball is in Mainoo's court now and it does look like he's made the right decision. Only time will tell if he has improved on himself to be the first name on the line up sheet."
Commenter ExLimey writes: "Mainoo got caught out with a manager swap & an injury, he has to knuckle down and man up now, and prove to himself he can compete at his highest level. It would be a massive mistake for both club and player if he's allowed to leave. There is maybe a world-class player in him, and where best to prove that first?"
Trouble6 says: "Well, that is the sort of attitude we want and need from young players. Committed to the club and wanting to play for it. Unlike some, who get dropped for a game and go off in a huff and ask to leave."Redscot agrees: "Well said. With a positive attitude, good things normally come to those who wait. Much better than sulking and going into a strop like some of those who have left this summer."
Amorim must now respond to Mainoo's commitment, says Indo: "To think that training is the only way for a player to improve is absurd. Only minutes on the pitch can improve a player. I saw Donny van de Beek going down in his performances when he was not afforded regular playing time. He never reached the level he had at Ajax, because of the little regular playing time.
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"Put Mainoo in as a defensive midfielder and explain what is going to be expected of him. Only then can he expand his skills to become an all-round player. Why is it okay not to play Bruno in his preferred position, but not for Mainoo? At the same time, Bruno needs time to rest, and it would be good to have Mainoo take on some more playing time."
Garth123 writes: "I dont think there is any doubt about Kobbie's playing ability, professional prowess, and his hard work and commitment. The doubt I have, is whether he is a good fit in Amorim's system. Simply put, if Amorim keeps playing Bruno in midfield then Kobbie will not get a start.
"The only time I could see perhaps a chink of light for him is if Bruno leaves the club next summer for warmer climes, and a new midfield could be built around Kobbie. I cannot honestly say having a minor role this season will satisfy Kobbie enough for him to stay for the rest of the season."