Man United’s ‘big player’ responds to Erik ten Hag’s challenge during win vs Luton

Manchester United’s 1-0 win against Luton Town on Saturday showed one ‘big player’ at Old Trafford respond to Erik ten Hag’s latest challenge.

Speaking ahead of the clash, Ten Hag was asked about Mason Mount’s status in the squad after the midfielder started on the bench for three of the prior four games.

As the club’s £55 million summer signing, with the iconic no.7 shirt, Mount was expected to play a bigger role but the United manager suggested that his injury caused issues, as well as the fact that other players were ahead of him.

“He had some starts. Also recently, last week against Newcastle, but there are always reasons and sometimes, like the injury [at the start of the season] and other players doing well, then you have to wait for your time to play,” said Ten Hag.

“It hasn’t changed at all [the expectations of Mount], but he started the season, then he got injured, so that is the worst moment for a new player to get injured because it stops the integration process and that was a setback for us all. Now we have to find his place back.”

Again, the former Chelsea star began the game against Luton Town on the bench but was introduced late in the first half due to Christian Eriksen’s injury.

Mount was involved in United’s winning goal as well as being their best midfielder out of possession, winning six of his eight ground duels in the clash. He was one of three standouts for the hosts on the day.

The midfielder offered a positive display from the bench last week against Fulham too and whatever he needed to do to ensure a place in the team, it seems like he has done that in recent games.

Mount’s tendency to keep things ticking in possession of the ball is something missing from United’s other midfielders. Many others would’ve attempted to take a shot when he laid the ball for Marcus Rashford to cross in the buildup to the goal.

Joe Cole believes that the midfielder will become a ‘big player’ for Ten Hag’s side and suggests that a role from the right wing could be utilised if Ten Hag does not want to adjust his midfield three after the international break.

“Erik ten Hag described him as the perfect midfielder when he signed him and that player is still there. Sometimes it’s difficult when you’ve been at a club for a long time and you need to settle in,” started Cole whilst speaking on TNT Sports.

“He will be a big player for Manchester United at some point. I think playing him further forward, off that right-hand side, let him settle in and things could look bright for him.”