Ex-Man Utd striker Berbatov: England talk too soon for Mainoo

Former Manchester United striker Dimitar Berbatov believes that Kobbie Mainoo is not yet England material.

Many Red Devils supporters have talked about the midfielder as a future regular for his national team.

While Berbatov is impressed by Mainoo's talent, he wants fans to remain calm about the teenager's potential.

"It's exciting to watch players like Mainoo, especially when they have such huge talent, but one step at a time," Berbatov told Betfair. "Don't jump when you need to walk first.

"Let's not get carried away and start talking about Mainoo getting picked by Gareth Southgate and going to this summer's Euros with England.

"Obviously Ten Hag trusts Mainoo and knows how to manage him so everything else will follow in time. We need to just enjoy what's happening now and not get carried away just yet. Let Mainoo play."

Berbatov continued: "Sometimes we're too quick to judge players. For good or for bad. Just let Mainoo play and don't put too much pressure on his shoulders - he's too young for that now.

"He's doing great so we need to just let him be, let him play and let him enjoy himself. The goal he scored against Wolves was great because it shows that he's mature beyond his years. He had the courage to try something different in the last minute of the game and it was a special moment.

"Mainoo is a special player, but as with every 18-year-old, we must just let them play because at the moment, Kobbie is just enjoying football in its purest form and that's what I like to see."