Why Mason Mount’s influence on Man Utd is becoming increasingly important, he deserves more credit
Mason Mount needs more credit for his growing influence on Rúben Amorim’s Manchester United squad following his goal against Crystal Palace.
Since Cristiano Ronaldo’s departure from the Theatre of Dreams in 2009 for what was then a record-breaking £80 million, the only player to do the iconic number justice has been, well, Ronaldo himself when he returned in sensational style in 2021.
That season, he netted 24 goals, showcasing his talismanic qualities.
Between Ronaldo’s two spells at Manchester United, many others have tried but ultimately failed – Di Maria, Depay and Alexis Sanchez, to name a few. The weight of expectations proved too hot to handle.
Gary Neville has previously stated that “United have become a graveyard for players.” This is no truer than for players who have had the pleasure of wearing United’s most seminal squad number. Among the long list of liabilities, though, lay flashes of finesse – in Edinson Cavani and Mason Mount.
Mount’s United career starting to ignite
Mount’s problem at United has been injuries – they have simply plagued his playing time.
But this campaign has been a different story. He has been sidelined for only one game, but still, United are treating him with caution. When used, however, he is becoming a growing influence.
The Englishman has notched up an impressive showreel so far this term.
He set the tone for United’s dominant first half at Fulham in August, and he was even better the following week against Burnley until he was forced off at half-time. He was the match-winner and man of the match against Sunderland, had goalscoring opportunities at Anfield, created openings for Benjamin Sesko at Tottenham, and rifled home a ripper to win at Selhurst Park on Sunday.
The match was decided in fitting fashion, with United’s current No.7 scoring the winner as the United faithful sang about a No.7 of the past in Eric Cantona – an unpopular figure if you are of a Palace persuasion.
Mount important for Amorim’s system
When Ruben Amorim first took the reins at United, he stated that he “loved” Mount, and fans are starting to see why.
The first game of the Amorim era came against Ipswich at Portman Road, which saw Mount act as second in command to Amorim, cajoling his colleagues from the bench, given he has previously played in a back-three formation for Chelsea.
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An underrated facet of Mount’s game is his leadership skills – in United’s most recent Premier League outing, he made a beeline for Leny Yoro, who is currently struggling for form.
If Mount can maintain his momentum, perhaps United will be in seventh heaven once more. Following in the footsteps of George Best, Eric Cantona, Sir David Beckham and Bryan Robson.
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