Kobbie Mainoo was called into action during Manchester United's Premier League win against Burnley but his longer-term future remains the topic of plenty of debate
Manchester United midfielder Kobbie Mainoo may now have reason to stay at Old Trafford. The England international was linked with a move before deadline day, but injuries to Matheus Cunha and Mason Mount potentially offers him a chance for a run of games.
Cunha, a £62.5million summer signing from Wolves, picked up an injury in Saturday's 3-2 victory over Burnley. It was Joshua Zirkzee who took his place on that occasion, but another option to make up for the Brazilian's absence involves pushing Bruno Fernandes forward and installing Mainoo in central midfield alongside Casemiro.
That's exactly what happened later in the game when Mount's afternoon also came to an early end. Now, according to The Mail, the pair of injuries may end up standing in the way of a Mainoo exit - though United have yet to learn how long they will be without Mount and Cunha.
United head coach Ruben Amorim, for his part, has maintained he wants Mainoo to stay at Old Trafford. "I want Kobbie to stay, He needs to fight for his place," the boss said.
"And we need Kobbie, so that is not going to change. I understand that the players that are not playing in this moment are disappointed. Everyone will have the same opportunity to play. You have to fight during the week."
Despite the injuries, United claimed a narrow win over Burnley. Bruno Fernandes converted a stoppage-time penalty to settle the clash after the Clarets had trice equalised.
The victory ensures Amorim's side will go into the international break in mid-table, but there has been talk of more transfer business - both ins and outs. A new goalkeeper could yet arrive, while Antony is among the players who could yet leave the club.
"I was frustrated like any Man Utd fan, we had chances to score more goals, create more chances," Amorim told Match of the Day after his team's victory. "Today, the football was fair - we were the better team.
"Some moments are really decisive. Sometimes we were not playing so well, but you can see the effort of everyone on the pitch wanting to win."
The Portuguese also confirmed conversations with the board would continue to take place. "I am always speaking with them to try and improve the team," he added, while also telling Sky Sports he was "concerned" about both Cunha and Mount as he waits for updates on the pair.
United's first match after the international break is a big one, with Amorim's side taking on Manchester City at the Etihad Stadium. City will go into the game ahead of United if they avoid defeat on Sunday against Brighton.