Manchester United manager Erik ten Hag has given his backing to Mason Mount after a difficult debut.
Mason Mount played just over 65 minutes on his debut for Manchester United, with the team winning 1-0.
It wasn’t an altogether successful one, however. United’s goal came after Mount was substituted off, and he failed to impact the game.
Mount created no chances, had no shots at goal, and Wolves exploited the space he left behind him in midfield.
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Ten Hag on Mount
Erik ten Hag told BBC Sport he was pleased with Mason Mount’s contribution against Wolves.
He said: “A good performance. He did what we expect him to do, what we demand him to do, a very good level he had in the game. Pleased with that.”
Mount may have done what Ten Hag asked, but in that case, it really looked like the instructions were flawed.
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The fear about United’s new look midfield trio, was that it would put too much onus on Casemiro to defend single-handedly. And so it proved.
Mount and Fernandes were often stationed high up around the opposing penalty area, leaving swathes of space in behind on the counter attack for Wolves to exploit.
High risk strategy
The tactical approach Ten Hag utilised was a high risk approach, which might pay off if Mount and Fernandes are creating chances and scoring goals.
Mount struggled to get involved, with no chances created, and it was not a surprise when he was substituted and replaced by Christian Eriksen.
United were fortunate to escape with all three points. This weekend’s game away at Tottenham may not be quite as forgiving if the team defend in the same way.