ERIK TEN HAG believes Manchester United youngster Kobbie Mainoo is ready to make the step up into the first-team.
Mainoo featured regularly during pre-season for the Red Devils.
And Ten Hag was impressed by his performances, particularly against Arsenal in a 2-0 win.
So much so that Mainoo looks set to play a starring role for United this season, with Ten Hag promising the 18-year-old game time as the campaign progresses.
The Dutchman made a show of faith in the youngster, saying: "It is a new midfield. We can, we have to step up there, we have to improve. So I agree in that fact. We have to improve it.
"Of course, also last year [McTominay] played that (defensive) role, so he is capable of doing it. But, I know he is not in this moment there, but Kobbie Mainoo, we have seen him against Arsenal, he is ready to take that role.
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"Not at this moment available, but I think he will in two months he will be available, for winter is coming up he will absolutely have his games."
Ten Hag's comments came in response to suggestions United's midfield was overrun in their opening Premier League game against Wolves on Monday.
He dismissed claims Casemiro was left exposed, with pundit Jamie Carragher critical of the Brazilian's performance.
Carragher said: “Casemiro was too often isolated and lacked the dynamism and energy required for such a responsible position.
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“Erik ten Hag is already in a situation in which he needs to remodel his midfield because Casemiro does not have the legs to work alone.
“Every time United toiled in the middle, the contrast with the youth and vigour Arsenal and Chelsea have secured with their recent midfield purchases became more pronounced.
“Although it was only one game, it was a worry for United supporters.
“They will not be title contenders until they find a Rodri, Caicedo or Rice of their own.
“After paying £70 million for someone who could do the job five years ago but will continue to struggle to match his previous high standards, the current market suggests they will need another £100 million for the midfielder to do so for the next five years.”
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