Rio Ferdinand believes that one of Manchester United’s criticised stars can still become a top player under the leadership of Ruben Amorim.
Manchester United won the Premier League Summer Series during their tour of the United States and it was a productive two weeks for the Reds.
Following a goalless draw with Leeds in Sweden, United beat West Ham 2-1, then impressed with a 4-1 win over Bournemouth. A 2-2 draw with Everton rounded off the tour, with United finishing top of the table.
While there were plenty of positives for Ruben Amorim to take, the tour also highlighted a few issues that still need addressing.
Some players managed to show much-improved displays as well, with many players fighting for spots in the team ahead of the new season.
Ferdinand says United star can become “top player” under Amorim
Mason Mount impressed during his appearances on pre-season, with a brilliant goal against the Toffees topping things off for him.
The Englishman has had a tough time at Old Trafford since his move from Chelsea but Rio Ferdinand is expecting him to play a major role this season.
“I saw him in Chicago and that’s one of the things I said to me, ‘How are you feeling?’, because he’s been robbed of minutes through injury and it’s been really disappointing to see,” Ferdinand told talkSPORT.
“You take it back to when you played, being injured and in the shadows. I never had that at a new club but that is so depressing and it can take your soul away at times and I’m sure he’s been in some dark moments.
“But he will be like a new signing. It’s no surprise that whenever he’s been fit, he’s played, especially at Chelsea and the manager’s have played him. When they won the Champions League, he was one of most important players.
“He has the quality, the work ethic, the legs and ability to be a really top player and I just hope he gets the time to play minutes and show himself.”
Mount must produce attacking moments
While it is clear that Mount won’t be at the top of the pecking order when the season begins, his form over pre-season was a reminder that he’s still pushing for involvement.
We all know that he can contribute positively out of possession but if he can produce moments inside the box more often – like he did against Everton – then it wouldn’t be surprising if he pushed for regular football at Old Trafford.
Read More: Manchester United’s two biggest losers from pre-season tour, Ruben Amorim has called out the issue
Matheus Cunha is the star signing but can also play centrally. Mount improving his game would be great for the competition in those forward areas.
Even though many fans are still doubting his ability to impact games for the Reds on a consistent basis, Ferdinand is clearly backing Mount to finally show his best form in a United shirt next season.
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