Mason Mount impresses for Manchester United in friendly win over Leeds
Mason Mount made his Manchester United debut, playing the first half as Erik ten Hag’s side began their pre-season schedule with a 2-0 win against Leeds in Oslo.
Ten Hag’s starting XI was a combination of youth and experience, with Lisandro Martínez, Raphaël Varane and Jadon Sancho joined by young prospects like Kobbie Mainoo and Omari Forson.
Tributes were paid before kick off to the former Scotland, Manchester United and Leeds defender Gordon McQueen, who died at the age of 70 last month. Daniel Farke was taking charge of his first game as manager of Leeds, who are preparing for life back in the Championship following relegation last season.
Mount, who made a £55m move from Chelsea last month, impressed in flashes during a quiet first period. The 24-year-old created a big opening in the 10th minute, passing in behind for Amad Diallo to tee up Hannibal Mejbri, who was denied by a smart save from the Leeds goalkeeper, Kristoffer Klaesson.
Moments later the England midfielder was involved again, winning the ball back before attempting a delicate chip over Klaesson from 25 yards which landed on the roof of the net.
Noam Emeran celebrates his opening goal. Photograph: Ash Donelon/Manchester United/Getty Images
“I am sure he will contribute to the success of Manchester United because he is a quality player,” Ten Hag told MUTV before kick-off. “In midfield you have to attack but you also have to defend. He will bring dynamic into our game. We need more dynamic in that midfield department.”
The breakthrough came on 67 minutes as the 18-year-old Norwegian, Isak Hansen-Aaroen, played in French forward Noam Emeran, who slid the ball past Dani van den Heuvel. Emeran then turned provider for Joe Hugill to seal the win 10 minutes from time.
The Red Devils’ pre-season continues with a game against Lyon in Edinburgh next Wednesday before they head to the USA for matches against Arsenal, Wrexham, Real Madrid and Borussia Dortmund.
Source: The Guardian
