Southgate's praise for Mainoo

The 18-year-old midfielder was voted our Player of the Month for January and followed it up with a stunning last-minute strike against Wolves in our 4-3 win.

Kobbie was also in good form against West Ham United last weekend, playing 64 minutes of our 3-0 success over West Ham United at Old Trafford.

The teenager is already catching the eye of the Three Lions boss, despite his wealth of options.

“He's doing brilliantly,” said Southgate, speaking after the UEFA Nations League draw.

“I'm not certain he's necessarily going to be a defensive midfielder, as such.

“He's quite a progressive player but he's had a fabulous start to his career and it will be good to monitor him as we go forward.”

Kobbie, a proud graduate of the United Academy, will be hoping to help Erik ten Hag's men secure another vital three points as we prepare to take on Aston Villa this weekend.

The young midfielder has played for England's youth teams up to the Under-19s and, so far, boasts six caps at international level.

Luke Shaw, Harry Maguire and Marcus Rashford have all been involved for England during the qualifying campaign and will be hoping to secure their place at the tournament.

The draw has also been made for the UEFA Nations League, with England alongside Finland, Republic of Ireland and Greece in Group B2. 

There is a possible head-to-head for Reds in that competition, in terms of Scott McTominay (Scotland) versus Diogo Dalot and Bruno Fernandes (Portugal). Those nations are in Group A1, with Poland and Croatia.