Kobbie Mainoo explains position change and makes Manchester United celebration admission

Midfielder Kobbie Mainoo has admitted the celebration picture of him, Alejandro Garnacho and Rasmus Hojlund on an Old Trafford advertising hoarding will only become iconic if the trio achieve great success in Manchester United colours.

The three youngsters perched themselves on the hoarding after Garnacho scored United's second goal in their 3-0 win over West Ham United last month. Garnacho sat in the centre with Hojlund to his right and Mainoo to his left.

The image instantly went viral across the world, offering a potential glimpse into United's long-term future. Each member of the aforementioned trio has cemented themselves as a key member in Erik ten Hag's plans in recent months.

READ MORE: How United kept Kobbie Mainoo amid City interest

READ MORE: United predicted line-up vs City as Mainoo starts

However, despite the popularity of the image, Mainoo has kept his feet on the ground, insisting it will only mean something if he, Garnacho and Hojlund can enjoy plenty of success together.

"The picture is only iconic if we go on to do great things for the club," Mainoo told Sky Sports. "If we can do that, then hopefully it will go down in history."

Mainoo, who will be hoping to start his first Manchester derby when United face City at the Etihad Stadium on Sunday afternoon, has become a key figure in United's midfield in recent months, stepping up when more senior figures have faltered. But had things worked out differently in his development as a youngster, he may have been operating higher up the pitch.

Mainoo continued: "Not many people know that I used to be a striker when I was coming up [through the ranks]. When I was younger, I was always a striker.

"Then I played as a No.10 and spent a little bit of time on the wing and stuff like that. It is only recently that I have come into a proper central midfield role. I'm learning on the job."

Since making his senior debut for United against Charlton Athletic in the Carabao Cup last season, Mainoo has made a total of 20 appearances for the Reds. For that, he admits he owes a lot to Ten Hag.

"I am grateful that he has given me an opportunity to play for this club," added the United youngster. "Also, what I appreciate is that he pushes you every day. He keeps pushing you and wants more and more and more from his players.

"I think that really helps you to develop quicker."