Manchester United midfielder Kobbie Mainoo has yet to start a Premier League match this season and has been linked with a possible loan move in the January transfer window, but head coach Ruben Amorim insists the England international remains central to the club’s long-term plans.

The 20-year-old has made 12 appearances in all competitions this season, including one start in the League Cup, but is set to miss Friday’s clash with Newcastle United after picking up a calf injury.

Amorim acknowledged that Mainoo will need patience but stressed that opportunities will come, praising his versatility and long-term potential.

“Kobbie Mainoo will have the opportunity — he has all the time,” Amorim told reporters on Thursday. “He has played in different positions. When we talk about Casemiro’s position, he can play there.

“If we play with three in midfield, he can also play, like in the last game, in Mason Mount’s position. He can play there.

“So in the future, he is going to be the future of Manchester United. That is my feeling. You just need to wait for each chance, because everything can change in football in two days.”

With United currently stretched by injuries and absences due to the Africa Cup of Nations, Amorim suggested it would be difficult to allow players to leave on loan in January unless replacements are brought in.

“It’s going to be hard for someone to leave the club if we don’t get a substitution,” the Portuguese coach added. “We are short. Even with a full squad, we are short for things that can happen.”

Manchester United currently sit seventh in the Premier League, with 26 points from 17 matches.