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Kobbie Mainoo is targeting the continuation of his meteoric rise with Manchester United and England by aiming for a spot in Gareth Southgate's final 23-man squad for Euro 2024. The 18-year-old has only made 20 appearances for United but started 14 of the past 15 matches after forcing his way into Erik ten Hag's setup with a series of impressively mature performances. - Stream on ESPN+: LaLiga, Bundesliga, NWSL more (U.S.) ESPN reported last month that Southgate was keen to fast-track the midfielder through the England ranks and he was initially named in Lee Carsley's Under-21s side for the first time last week. However, Mainoo was drafted into the senior side on Tuesday and despite his lack of experience, he said: "I think that's the end goal for the season, to get into that squad. But obviously I've got to focus on club football in the meantime, and hopefully that'll figure itself out." Mainoo is still eligible to play for Ghana -- the birthplace of both his parents -- as FIFA rules dictate a player is only permanently tied to one nation when playing three competitive matches. England face friendlies against Brazil and Belgium later this month. Asked if he had decided to play for England having represented them at Under-17s, Under-18s and under-19s level, Mainoo said: "Yeah, I mean, obviously, I'm proud of my Ghanaian heritage, both my parents being from there and my family. But being at England as well is an amazing opportunity and I'm enjoying it so far." Mainoo also hailed the influence of Casemiro at United with the five-time Champions League winner forming the engine room of Ten Hag's side. "He has a lot of experience and obviously he gives me little tips and helps me a lot, talks with me and stuff like that," said Mainoo. "To have someone who's played so much in the game and won so much in him, it's the best you can have, really. As well as Bruno [Fernandes], who I play next to as well, who has got a lot of experience."
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