Kobbie Mainoo receives ‘special’ World Cup message from Wayne Rooney (opens original article in a new tab)

Manchester United's Kobbie Mainoo received a motivational message from Wayne Rooney ahead of England's World Cup opener against Croatia, with Rooney praising him as an inspiration for young players.

• Kobbie Mainoo received a good luck message from Wayne Rooney before England's World Cup game against Croatia
• Rooney called Mainoo 'an inspiration' for young players and urged him to 'be yourself'
• Mainoo was overlooked by former Manchester United manager Ruben Amorim but earned a place in the starting XI under Michael Carrick