Gareth Southgate hints Kobbie Mainoo could play in a different position for England

Gareth Southgate has appeared to hint at Kobbie Mainoo playing in a different position for England ahead of a potential call-up.

Mainoo continues to impress for Manchester United after breaking into the first-team last year.

He starred against Wolves, scoring a dramatic winner deep, deep into stoppage time, bagging his first Premier League goal in the process.

His impressive performances have alerted Southgate, who is keeping tabs on the budding talent ahead of a potential call-up.

Mainoo, who has represented England at youth level, has been offered a shock international allegiance switch, having not yet been called up for the Three Lions.

But an England cap seems to be on the cards as Southgate monitors the 18-year-old's progress at Man United.

However, Mainoo could play in a different position for England as Southgate isn't certain he'll be a defensive midfielder, hinting at a potential No.8 role.

“He’s doing brilliantly," he told TNT Sports. "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 Mainoo in action for Manchester United. Image: Getty

Mainoo has played 13 games in all competitions this season, scoring two goals and is quickly becoming a key player for Erik ten Hag.

His emergence at Man United has fans calling for him to be on the plane for Euro 2024 this summer, which could see him play alongside Declan Rice and Jude Bellingham.

Mainoo could feature for England ahead of the tournament in Germany as they have friendlies scheduled in the coming months.

They face Brazil and Belgium next month before taking on Bosnia and Herzegovina in June.

England, who found out their Nations League fate on Thursday, are grouped with Serbia, Denmark and Slovenia at Euro 2024.