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Man United boss Ruben Amorim defends his treatment of Kobbie Mainoo

Kobbie Mainoo has struggled for game time under Ruben Amorim (Martin Rickett/PA).
Kobbie Mainoo has struggled for game time under Ruben Amorim (Martin Rickett/PA). (PA Wire)
  • Ruben Amorim has defended his decision to marginalise Kobbie Mainoo at Manchester United, stating he does not pick the team based on big names or England international status.
  • Mainoo is one of only four senior players in Amorim’s squad yet to start a Premier League match this season.
  • Amorim has consistently preferred a midfield partnership of captain Bruno Fernandes and Casemiro, also opting for Manuel Ugarte ahead of Mainoo.
  • The manager expressed irritation at the focus on Mainoo, reiterating that his job is to win and select the best players based on performance.
  • Amorim did not offer Mainoo encouragement for increased playing time during the Africa Cup of Nations, stating selection will depend on training performance.
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