On Saturday afternoon, Manchester United made it four wins from four under new manager Michael Carrick, with a 2-0 win at home to Tottenham Hotspur to begin the Premier League's day of action. 

Like in the first three games, there were a number of top performances all over the park. United had to show a different side to the game, and dig in to get the three points, and that they did. 

One of the best performers yesterday was Kobbie Mainoo, who has now started all four games under Carrick, playing pretty much 90 minutes on all four occasions. 

His quick, incisive, round-the-corner lay off set Bryan Mbeumo up for the opener, and he just generally played very well throughout the game. The youngster recorded 100 touches, 79 accurate passes, four chances created, 2/3 aerial duels won, two fouls drawn, and 28 carries. 

Even then, it felt like his levels could have gone up more. There were times when he could have driven forward, but opted for a pass instead. Sometimes he needs to be reminded just how good he is. Nevertheless, it was overall a solid, 7.5/10 performance. 

There is stiff competition for the biggest highlight of the Carrick era so far, but Mainoo will be it. His performances have just been so good, both with and without the ball. And it is not going unnoticed. 

Indeed not, as according to ESPN FC, the 20-year-old is "very likely" to head to the World Cup. They say his recent performances have drawn the attention of the England national team staff. 

What a story this would be. From many reports that the midfielder would seek to leave Old Trafford in January for game time ahead of the World Cup, to starting every game and having a good shot from his performances in a United shirt. How quickly things can change. 

Back in March of 2024, Mainoo made his England debut and was part of the Euro 2024 squad, establishing himself in the XI during the knockout rounds and starting in the final against Spain. His performance against the Netherlands in the semi-final was particularly impressive. 

However, since then, he has only been in one squad and made just one appearance - featuring in a Nations League game against the Republic of Ireland in September 2024, the first game after the Euros. Players such as Ruben Loftus-Cheek have been called up more recently than the United man, but that looks like it will change very soon. 

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