'They're my boys man' - Man Utd starlet Kobbie Mainoo opens up on special relationship with Alejandro Garnacho & Rasmus Hojlund and reveals hopes that one particular photo of trio becomes 'iconic'

The 18-year-old is enjoying a stellar, breakout season at Old Trafford, emerging as one of United's most promising prospects in midfield. Mainoo has steadily become a mainstay in Erik ten Hag's side alongside fellow academy graduate Garnacho and summer signing Hojlund. The trio's special relationship on the pitch was epitomised by a picture of them celebrating on the Old Trafford advertising boards during the 3-0 victory over West Ham earlier this month - a photo Mainoo hopes becomes "iconic".

Maino told United's official website about that photo: "Yeah, I kind of understand [the reaction]. I mean, three young players with I believe bright futures and so hopefully it can go on to be an iconic picture and hopefully we can do great things for the club.”

Asked about his relationship with the attacking duo, the Englishman added: "Yeah, they're my boys, man. Obviously we're all young, so we're always together. We're always talking and stuff like that. I've known Garna a while now from the Academy. We came off the bench against City [for our Under-18s debuts]. That was back when he didn't speak any English so we didn't really know him that well, but we have grown a great relationship, all three of us, so hopefully it can stay that way for the future.”

Despite an ankle injury ruling him out until October, Mainoo has featured prominently under Ten Hag this season. The young midfielder has 12 appearances in the league - all of which have come as a starter - while also playing the full 90 minutes in both FA Cup fixtures to date. Beyond his two goals Mainoo has impressed with his composure and confidence at such a young age. His ability to link up play and cope under pressure has seen calls for him to be selected by England boss Gareth Southgate in March.

That camp, which features friendlies against Brazil and Belgium, will be Mainoo's last chance to be reintegrated into the Three Lions set-up before the upcoming European Championships. Despite representing England at youth level, Mainoo has reportedly already been approached by Ghana over switching his international allegiance.

For now, though, the young midfielder will be focused on securing a top-four finish with United and helping them to their only available bit of silverware this term, the FA Cup. The Red Devils take on Nottingham Forest in a fifth round clash later on Tuesday.