Gary Neville names three games that show Kobbie Mainoo should start for England

Gary Neville says three games show Kobbie Mainoo is ready to step into the England starting XI at Euro 2024, deeming Trent Alexander-Arnold too much of a risk in midfield.

The Liverpool right-back started in the role during Sunday’s 1-0 opening win over Serbia, before being replaced by Chelsea’s Conor Gallagher on 69 minutes. Mainoo came on 17 minutes later when replacing match-winner Jude Bellingham four minutes from time.

It was the midfielder’s fourth senior cap for the Three Lions, having only made his debut in March. Mainoo has become a key part of Manchester United’s line-up under Erik ten Hag and Neville believes he will soon attain the same status under Gareth Southgate.

READ MORE: Kobbie Mainoo opens up on Erik ten Hag decision and reveals why he’s happy with Man United manager

He told The Overlap that he believes Alexander-Arnold will be axed in place for Mainoo as England progress through the European Championships given the greater stability he offers.

The former England defender said: “Balance demands that, as the tournament progresses, Alexander-Arnold may be sacrificed in midfield and Kobbie Mainoo played instead.

“Every good team has a player who can receive a ball on the half turn, set the rhythm of the team and control a game. I love Bellingham, Rice and Alexander-Arnold. They are all amazing players. But I’m not convinced the current midfield three can provide that.

“With Mainoo in midfield there’s a different dynamic which might help the team. If Mainoo is in midfield, it would allow Rice to make those runs forward at least two or three times in a game. That’s a real asset for England.”

Neville clarified that Mainoo is not a perfect solution but pointed to the player’s coolness in high-pressure games. He listed three United matches which he says shows that the 19-year-old is ready to start for his country.

Neville continued: “Let’s be clear, playing Mainoo is also a risk. He hasn’t got anything like the experience honed over seasons that you would normally want for a player in such a pivotal position.

“But the first three games Mainoo started for United were away at Goodison Park, St James’ Park and Anfield. I remember thinking that not only could he play and handle the ball, but that his temperament was outstanding.

“He was player of the match in the FA Cup final. There have been times when it has been going badly wrong for United and he and Bruno Fernandes have been the only ones to demonstrate composure in the difficult moments. I’ve no doubts he can handle the occasion.”