Gaz Drinkwater brands England’s midfield omission of Mainoo a disgrace

Manchester United midfielder Kobbie Mainoo remains unused by England at the 2026 World Cup, prompting criticism from BBC Radio Manchester’s The Devils’ Advocate podcast. Hosts Gaz Drinkwater and guest Jay Motty described the omission as “insulting” ahead of England’s last‑32 clash with DR Congo. Thomas Tuchel has consistently selected Declan Rice and Elliot Anderson as his central‑midfield starters for England in the tournament. Mainoo, despite his Manchester United pedigree, has not been given any playing time. When Rice was sidelined for the final group match against Panama, Tuchel responded by starting Morgan Rogers. Later in that game, Jordan Henderson was preferred as a substitute over Mainoo.

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Former United striker Wayne Rooney publicly urged Tuchel to start Mainoo instead of Anderson for the upcoming last‑32 encounter with DR Congo. Rooney’s plea highlighted the perceived talent gap between Mainoo and the established midfield pair. Gaz Drinkwater said, “The biggest insult of all, for me Jordan Henderson coming on ahead of Kobbie Mainoo is ridiculous.” He framed the substitution choice as a direct slight to the young midfielder. Jay Motty added, “I think the biggest insult of all is that Kobbie Mainoo's not starting for England… you don’t need two players that are similar.” Motty argued that Mainoo’s abilities surpass Henderson’s, citing fitness and talent.