Jamie Redknapp believes Kobbie Mainoo's emergence this season is even more impressive because of Manchester United's poor form.
Mainoo, 18, has earned rave reviews since being integrated into Erik ten Hag's first-team squad. The teenage prodigy has quickly established himself as a key figure at Old Trafford and has even been fast-tracked into the England squad, winning his first two caps during the recent international break.
The young playmaker's breakthrough has come during a difficult campaign for United, who could yet miss out on qualifying for next season's Champions League. Ten Hag's long-term future is in doubt as a result, although it has recently been suggested that Ineos are planning for next year with the Dutchman in mind.
Mainoo has been a rare bright spot for United - and Redknapp believes that makes his transition from academy prospect to first-team star even more impressive than somebody like Phil Foden, who was drip-fed into a hugely successful Manchester City team.
Speaking on Sky Sports ahead of Saturday night's match between United and Brentford, Redknapp said: "When you come into the Man City team as a youngster, like Phil Foden did, that’s not as difficult [as Kobbie Mainoo's breakthrough] because you’re playing with great players."
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Mainoo has already racked up 17 appearances after recovering from an injury he picked up during pre-season. 15 of those have come in the Premier League and he scored his first senior goal with the winner in a dramatic 4-3 win over Wolves.
Despite struggling with illness in the build-up to the Brentford match, Mainoo played for 80 minutes against Brentford before being replaced by Casemiro.
Join the debate! What do you make of Mainoo's performance against Brentford? Let us know here.
Mainoo has enjoyed a breakthrough season for both Manchester United and England (Getty Images)The match was goalless in the 90th minute before a dramatic finale saw both sides score in additional time. Mason Mount plundered home for United in the 96th minute, only for Kristoffer Ajer to restore parity three minutes later.
The result leaves United sixth in the Premier League table, 11 points behind fourth-placed Aston Villa, who occupy the final Champions League berth.
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