Lineker in jest: Mainoo should "sue" Amorim for derailing his career

Gary Lineker has jokingly proposed that Kobbie Mainoo ought to consider suing Ruben Amorim, suggesting the former United boss has been "absolutely detrimental" to the young midfielder's development.

The Red Devils have enjoyed a dramatic resurgence since Michael Carrick took temporary charge, stringing together four consecutive victories over Manchester City, Arsenal, Fulham and Spurs. Part of Carrick's immediate remedy has involved reinstating Mainoo to the starting lineup—a stark contrast to Amorim's reluctance to deploy him.

Speaking on The Rest Is Football podcast, Lineker laid into Amorim's handling of the talented midfielder: "If I was Kobbie Mainoo – and I say this in jest – I'd be thinking about whether I should sue him or not. He's taken a year out of that kid's career."

The former England striker waxed lyrical about Mainoo's qualities, describing him as a "wonderful footballer" whose technical gifts are plain to see. "He wants the ball, he receives it with anyone around him and he turns, always makes the right decisions, he's graceful," Lineker enthused.

Lineker believes Mainoo's recent performances merit inclusion in Thomas Tuchel's England squad for this summer's World Cup, provided fitness permits. He also reinforced his criticism of Amorim's "baffling" approach to the midfielder's minutes.

"If he doesn't make the World Cup squad… and I sense he probably will if he can stay fit and if he keeps playing because he's just a seriously good footballer," Lineker continued.

The pundit also referenced Mainoo's brother's now-famous "Free Kobbie" t-shirt message, suggesting the sentiment held genuine substance. "I know his brother got in a bit of trouble for saying on the T-shirt, 'Free Kobbie', but he has absolutely got a point. What was he [Amorim] thinking?!"

Lineker concluded by emphasizing the bewildering nature of Amorim's decision-making. "I say this in jest, obviously, but I mean, come on! It's so, so baffling that he couldn't see how good that young man is," he said, before reflecting that Mainoo's return has merely confirmed what was always evident—that he represents arguably England's standout performer from the recent Euros.