Kobbie Mainoo made his second appearance for Man Utd on Saturday as he came off the bench in the win over Reading.

Kobbie Mainoo made his second senior appearance of the season on Saturday. (Image: 2023 Man Utd FC)

Alejandro Garnacho was keen to praise Man Utd teammate Kobbie Mainoo after the young midfielder made his second first-team appearance for the Reds.

Mainoo came off the bench as Erik ten Hag’s side secured a 3-1 victory over Reading in the FA Cup fourth round on Saturday night, with Casemiro (2) and Fred both on the scoresheet for the home side.

The 17-year-old – who made his United debut in the Carabao Cup triumph over Charlton Athletic earlier in the season – replaced Casemiro in the 73rd minute of the clash. Despite only being on the pitch for the latter stages of the tie, Mainoo was still able to show glimpses of his quality against the Royals.

Garnacho, who also came off the bench on Saturday night, lauded his fellow youngster after the match – taking to Instagram to praise Mainoo for his impressive cameo.

“What a player,” wrote the Argentine, alongside a clapping emoji.

Mainoo has registered two goals and two assists in 11 Premier League 2 appearances so far this season, and was also on target for the first-team in the friendly against Cadiz during the winter training camp. He became the second academy prospect promoted into senior football under Ten Hag, with striker Charlie McNeill having come off the bench during the Europa League defeat to Real Sociedad.

Garnacho, meanwhile, has registered two goals and five assists for the first-team this season, including a vital winner against Fulham in the Premier League before the World Cup.

Both players, who were part of the FA Youth Cup-winning squad last season, will be desperate to feature in the Carabao Cup semi-final second-leg clash with Nottingham Forest on Wednesday night.

source: https://www.manchestereveningnews.co.uk/