Former Premier League midfielder compares Mason Mount to himself as he sets target for Man United star

Former Manchester United academy graduate and Premier League midfielder David Platt has compared himself to Mason Mount as a player amid criticism of the 24-year-old.

Platt, 27, enjoyed a successful career in both England and Italy, where he played for the likes of Aston Villa, Arsenal and Juventus across his career.

He left the academy at Old Trafford in 1985, one year before Sir Alex Ferguson took charge, and joined Crewe Alexander who were in the first division at the time.

The English midfielder would go on to score 61 goals for the club in a three-year period. In fact, Platt ended his career with over 200 goals and was the perfect example of a goalscoring midfielder.

Mount, 24, joined United in the summer from Chelsea and has had a difficult start to life at the club.

“My belief is that any top midfield player needs to be exceptional at something,” Platt told the Manchester Evening News when asked about the England international.

“What they’re exceptional at just needs to be one thing, so if you’re No.10, then go score goals and have an impact on the game.

“If you’re a No.8 these days, you’re byline to byline, the fitness is there and you defend but score as well. I think he’s a complete midfield player and what I’m interested in seeing now is ok, what are you going to excel at?”

At Stamford Bridge, Mount was awarded back-to-back Player of the Year awards. In the season prior to last, the playmaker contributed directly to 29 goals (13g, 16a) and Platt believes that the midfielder must bring this side back into his game.

“His biggest mentor is Frank Lampard and myself and him, we’re examples of goalscoring midfield players,” he added. “In my opinion, any top midfield player should have an identity – what are you going to be? I think Mason has the quality to get double figures.”

He is currently out with an injury but is expected to return to Erik ten Hag’s squad shortly after the international break.