Potential Lineup for England with Kobbie Mainoo

Soon, England supporters will get the chance to admire Kobbie Mainoo, much like Manchester United fans have been doing this season.

The 18-year-old has recently been elevated to the senior Three Lions team for the March internationals, with the potential of making his debut in games against either Brazil or Belgium.

There's no doubt that Mainoo is an exceptional talent who's earned his spot in the England roster, but how should the team best utilize him? Let's discuss a few possible strategies Gareth Southgate might consider.

Within United, Mainoo has typically been assigned a role in a midfield two within a 4-2-3-1 formation.

Given Jude Bellingham's efficacy playing in the hole for Real Madrid, it wouldn't be a shock if Southgate readopted this system to maximize Mainoo's abilities. If that's the case, Mainoo would take the defensive midfield position, possibly paired with Arsenal's Declan Rice.

This configuration offers the highest level of balance and quality for England's midfield. It could potentially be seen in the matches to come this week.

Of course, there's the possibility Bellingham could be asked to take a deeper position for England, similar to his role at the 2022 FIFA World Cup. Who knows what Southgate might have up his sleeve?

Given Rice's aggressive attacking style with Arsenal this season, Mainoo could be tasked with anchoring the intermediate space between defense and midfield solo. Not an easy task, but one he's certainly ready for.

Has there ever been an instance where a player gets demoted for actually increasing their playtime at club level? If so, Kalvin Phillips might be the first.

Theoretically, Phillips is the ideal defensive midfielder for England and had an impressive run at Euro 2020, but his recent form slump means Southgate needs other options. Jordan Henderson continues to secure a spot on the lineup, and Declan Rice would naturally step into the defensive midfield role if Mainoo is given a more offensive role.

Southgate is partial to a three-man defense line from time to time. A 3-4-3 formation could work well with the right players.

For the upcoming internationals, England has several strong wing-back options including Trent Alexander-Arnold, Reece James, and Kieran Trippier. Moreover, players like Kyle Walker and Ben Chilwell are also available.