Rio Ferdinand claims Man Utd are making huge Kobbie Mainoo mistake that they can't afford against Liverpool

Rio Ferdinand says Manchester United are making a mistake with Kobbie Mainoo that they can't afford against Liverpool.

Mainoo's stunning emergence at Man United has been the shining light in their underwhelming campaign this season.

He's played 21 games across all competitions, including 15 Premier League games and recently made his England debut, starring in the middle of the park on his full international debut against Belgium.

Mainoo, meanwhile, fought off an illness to play in team's 1-1 draw against Brentford last weekend.

The teenage sensation is set to feature in back-to-back league fixtures against Chelsea, which takes place tonight, before playing against Liverpool on Sunday.

And ahead of Man United's weekend clash against Liverpool, Ferdinand has revealed his worry for the 18-year-old.

The former Red Devils defender claims his old side must protect Mainoo especially ahead of the game against Jurgen Klopp's outfit.

In the latest episode of Stick to Football, brought to you by Sky Bet, Ferdinand said: "You look at Kobbie Mainoo, who everyone is raving about and rightly so - he’s been magnificent since he’s come into the team. But I don’t see anyone trying to protect him. He’s a kid - imagine if a young kid came into one of our teams, you try and protect that kid.

"There’s only the odd one, like Wayne Rooney, you don’t have to protect, but in the main you want to make sure there’s bodies around, don’t leave him exposed."

Manchester United's Kobbie Mainoo in action against Brentford. Image: Getty

The 45-year-old added: "How many games do you see him being left exposed? Imagine that feeling, being exposed in that midfield, it’s a lonely place in there if there’s big spaces.

"There’s got to be older players and coaches in that team that make sure they tighten it up for that player, especially for the game at the weekend [against Liverpool]."

Mainoo has played alongside Casemiro since he's returned to full fitness, but the veteran Brazilian has been below par this season, exposing his fellow midfielder.

Ferdinand wants the likes of Casemiro and coaches to protect the youngster when Man United play Liverpool.