Kobbie Mainoo injury question highlights Manchester United’s midfield problem

manchestereveningnews.co.uk:

A behind-closed-doors friendly against Barnsley in international week is unlikely to provide too many solutions for misfiring Manchester United.

The Reds won 3-0 this week but the talk was as much about a player who ultimately didn't feature as it was anything else. Kobbie Mainoo was slated to start but United's coaching team deemed it best not to press the midfielder into action as he recovers from injury.

The 18-year-old has been anointed for first-team duty and Erik ten Hag is a huge fan of the talented teenager. His absence so far this season has, if anything, seen his stock rise such has been United's midfield predicament.

And while no-one is expecting Mainoo to ride into the side and carry that burden by himself, there is a growing sense that the local lad can play a pivotal role. ALSO READ: City have sent the Glazers a reminder of what they've done to United ALSO READ: Ferguson's words a timely reminder to United amid Onana struggles To some extent that highlights the issues United are facing.