Kobbie Mainoo gets his first start as a senior international in tonight’s friendly between England and Switzerland at Wembley.
The Manchester United starlet made his debut against Brazil over the weekend, but now he’s got an opportunity to start a game for his country, at the age of 18.
England manager Gareth Southgate warned that he had several injuries going into the game, with Harry Maguire returning to United early from the March international break, but the Three Lions are also without the likes of Bukayo Saka, Harry Kane and Kyle Walker.
England are also without long-term absentees Luke Shaw, Sam Johnstone and Trent Alexander-Arnold.
The injuries have led to five changes to Southgate’s side.
Mainoo and Ivan Toney come in, but so does Ezri Konso – with all three making their full debuts for England.
Lewis Dunk and Jarrod Bowen start, while Conor Gallagher, Anthony Gordon and Ollie Watkins drop to the bench.
England XI: Pickford; Konsa, Stones, Dunk, Chilwell, Rice, Mainoo, Foden, Bellingham, Bowen, Toney.
Subs: Ramsdale, Trafford, Gallagher, Watkins, Gordon, Gomez, Henderson, Branthwaite, Lewis, Rashford, Maddison, Palmer.
Tonight's #ThreeLions! 👊 pic.twitter.com/Mxd6uHic5m
— England (@England) March 26, 2024
The friendly against Switzerland presents a big chance for non-regulars to stake their place for a spot on the plane to Germany, Mainoo included.
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