Erik ten Hag has spoken about one of Manchester United’s summer signings after a disappointing season.
It has been a difficult second season at United for Ten Hag, with the Old Trafford club languishing nine points adrift of the top four in sixth position in the Premier League, while they have been knocked out of both the Champions League and Carabao Cup.
No player has signified United’s term of inertia like £60million summer signing Mason Mount, who has been injured since November.
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Since a move from Chelsea the 25-year-old has been restricted to just 12 appearances due to a long-term calf problem.
When asked if he thinks Mount will come good for United in his pre-match press conference ahead of an FA Cup encounter against Liverpool, Ten Hag said: “I’m convinced he will be a key player.
“He didn’t have a chance to prove this point, but he will be a very good player for Manchester United.
“It’s really unfortunate, it’s really disappointing for him but also for us when you have such a class player in your middle, and you can’t play him.
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“He had three injuries as we all know, so he didn’t any time get in a rhythm.
“But I’m sure when he is fit and he plays he will get into that rhythm and he will contribute to a successful Manchester United, I’m sure.”
Mount enjoyed a full week’s worth of training and went into Saturday’s final session pushing to make the match day squad for Sunday’s FA Cup game against Liverpool.
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Elsewhere Ten Hag’s side are still without Lisandro Martinez, Luke Shaw and Tyrell Malacia as well as striker Anthony Martial due to injuries.
Following Sunday’s encounter, United’s next two games after the international break are against Brentford on March 30 and then Chelsea, Mount’s former club, on April 4.
Chris Byfield