- Mason Mount has not played since Man United’s 1-0 win over Luton in November
- Erik ten Hag was ‘convinced’ that the midfielder will be a ‘key player’ for his team
- I’m looking forward to Man United on Sunday… something has to happen for Jurgen’s juggernaut – It all starts podcast
ERIK ten Hag has backed Mason Mount as a ‘class’ player as a key player for Manchester United in their bid to end the season successfully.
Mount, who joined United for £60 million ahead of Liverpool last summer, will aim to be involved in Sunday’s FA Cup quarter-final between the two sides at Old Trafford.
The English midfielder has been struggling with an injury since arriving at Old Trafford. His latest calf problem sidelined him for four months.
But ahead of the bitter match against Liverpool, Ten Hag has not lost confidence that his big midfielder would have a huge influence in the run-in.
“I am convinced he will be (a key player),” Ten Hag said.
Mason Mount could return from injury during Man United’s FA Cup tie against Liverpool
Erik ten Hag backed the injury-plagued midfielder as a key part of the Red Devils’ bid for silverware this season
‘He didn’t have the chance to prove this point. But he will be a very good player for Manchester United.
‘It is a shame and disappointing for him, but also for us, when you have such a class player in the middle and you cannot play against him. He suffered injuries, as we all know.
‘He didn’t have time to get into a rhythm, but I’m sure if he is fit and he will play and get into that rhythm, he will contribute to a successful Manchester United.’
Mount has enjoyed a full week of training and went into Saturday’s final session looking to be part of Sunday’s matchday squad.
He has only made twelve appearances this season.
Ten Hag was asked if Sunday is a season-saving match for United, who are on the outside looking in to qualify for next season’s Champions League.
The Englishman has trained with the first team for a full week after not playing since November
There is a good chance he will be included in the squad to play Liverpool in the FA Cup
‘We have to save the season!’ said the Dutchman.
‘We know we have to catch up in the Premier League, but now we have the chance to win silverware.
‘The only chance is the FA Cup, so we are only three wins away.
‘Big games (forward) and we have to do our best. Sunday is a test for us, but we like the tests, we like the challenges and we can be relaxed to a certain extent because we believe in ourselves. We have to prove that on Sunday.’
