Mason Mount has endured a tricky first season at Manchester United but could still yet play a key role for Erik ten Hag in the race for Europe.

A number of injuries has resulted in the England international missing close to five months of the season although he has recently returned to action and made quite the impact. After coming on against Brentford, Mount scored what he thought was a late winner only for Kristoffer Ajer to equalise deep into stoppage time.

Cameos off the bench against Chelsea and Liverpool followed, however, unfortunately for Mount, United were unable to hold onto the leads they held in both games. Despite being 3-2 in front against the Blues, Ten Hag’s side miraculously came away from Stamford Bridge with no points and they were forced to settle for just one against Liverpool following Mohamed Salah’s late equaliser.

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Speaking ahead of Mount’s return to Chelsea last week, Ten Hag discussed the decision to sign Mount from the Blues and his hopes for the future. “I don’t think they wanted to sell him,” the United boss said in a press conference. “They wanted to keep him and they even offered him a new contract many times.

“But he wanted to make the step and we were, and we are, very pleased he is a Man United player because he has great abilities. I am sure he will contribute and he will become a big player for Man United.” Following his latest appearance of the bench, Mount has posted a message to social media.

Having missed the last 14 weeks, Mount just appears to be happy to be back fit and playing. With that in mind, Mount posted a match shot of him in action at Old Trafford to Instagram.

Mason Mount
Mason Mount has sent a message on Instagram (Image: Mason Mount on Instagram)

How Ten Has has setup his United midfield, despite the emergence of Kobbie Mainoo, has faced significant criticism this season, however Mount could be the key to fixing the problem.

Casemiro is starting to struggle with the intensity and is thus tiring in games and suffering minor injuries. While Mount is not an exact replacement, he certainly has the legs and energy to fulfil Ten Hag’s desires and he could be given a chance in the starting XI very soon.

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