Manchester United fans were left feeling bitterly disappointed on Tuesday evening when Kobbie Mainoo lined up for the U21s in the EFL Trophy vs Salford City.
While it may have disappointed Mainoo to be chosen for the U21s, it ended up being a blessing in disguise as he avoided being part of the embarrassment which unfolded 24 hours later at the Theatre of Dreams. The performance did little to raise the stock of anyone bar Mainoo.READ MORE: United fans convinced Ten Hag has 'perfect' Casemiro replacement
They have tried many times before to persuade the Stockport-born midfielder to switch allegiances but Mainoo has rejected them at every turn. It is for this reason that United are relaxed by City's desire to sign him. After the disarray seen against Newcastle, there seems to be little excuse now not to start featuring Mainoo more prominently. The midfield is arguably the weakest spot on the pitch with no combination yet to have nailed down the perfect formula.