FILE PHOTO: Soccer Football - Premier League - Wolverhampton Wanderers v Manchester United - Molineux Stadium, Wolverhampton, Britain - February 1, 2024 Manchester United's Kobbie Mainoo celebrates after the match Action Images via Reuters/Jason Cairnduff/File Photo
(Reuters) -Manchester United midfielder Kobbie Mainoo has received his first England senior call-up ahead of their two friendlies, the national team said on Tuesday, after the youngster's impressive run at the Premier League club.
The 18-year-old, who was initially part of the Under-21s squad for this month's U-21 Euro 2025 qualifiers, has been drafted into manager Gareth Southgate's team for matches at Wembley against Brazil on March 23 and Belgium on March 26.
Mainoo is a graduate of United's youth academy and has made 14 appearances for the Old Trafford side in the Premier League this season.
"It's an honour to receive my first senior call-up," Mainoo posted on Instagram.
Mainoo, who has represented England at Under-17, Under-18 and Under-19 levels, reported to St. George's Park on Tuesday.
Everton defender Jarrad Branthwaite and Newcastle United winger Anthony Gordon were also handed their first international call-ups by Southgate last week.
(Reporting by Pearl Josephine Nazare in Bengaluru; Editing by Hugh Lawson and Christian Radnedge)
