Manchester United midfielder Kobbie Mainoo put in another impressive effort in the club’s 2-0 FA Cup third-round win over Wigan Athletic.
The Red Devils crushed the Latics at the DW Stadium, and Mainoo played a major role with a stand-out performance in the center of the park.
The teenager made an early mistake that allowed Wigan to test the goalie, but he grew in confidence as the game progressed, winning the majority of his challenges.
Over the course of 90 minutes, Mainoo won ten duels and made eight tackles. He had 86 total touches and completed 90% of his passes.
At the age of 18, the teenager has already established himself as a major figure from the number six position, and Casemiro may find it difficult to replace him.
After recovering from a hamstring injury, the Brazilian is back in partial training, but manager Erik ten Hag has stated that he may not be ready for a few weeks.
United will play Tottenham Hotspur in the Premier League this weekend before a brief winter break. In late January, they could meet Newport County or Eastleigh in the FA Cup fourth round.
Mainoo should start both games in defensive midfield and has the chance to solidify his position ahead of a tough February schedule.
From the club’s perspective, they must concentrate on defeating Tottenham Hotspur at Old Trafford on Sunday in order to cut the distance to the Champions League spots to six points.
A defeat or draw will not help their prospects, since the nine-point lead might grow if Arsenal and Manchester City win in the same game week.