Match of the Day host Gary Lineker has backed Manchester United signings Mason Mount and Andre Onana to have a positive impact at the club.
Erik ten Hag spent £98 million combined on the two players, who are expected to become regular starters and feature in the opening game of the season. Both players played in the friendly win over Lens on Saturday.
In a season preview for The Sun, Lineker says he believes Mason Mount and Andre Onana will be quality additions.
READ: Confirmed Manchester United transfers in, out, loans, releases, youth for 2023/24
Manchester United new signings praised
Lineker said: “I’m really looking forward to seeing Manchester United’s new goalkeeper Andre Onana. I’m interested to see how that changes the way Erik ten Hag’s side build up from the back.
“Onana’s greatest strength was David de Gea’s real weakness. Sure, Onana will make some cock-ups but the benefits of having a keeper who can play will outweigh those moments when he gets things wrong.”
Onana was chipped from long range at the weekend against Lens, but this was largely down to a defensive error from Diogo Dalot who gave away possession too cheaply.
Aside from this, Onana was immaculate, making a number of saves and helping United play out from the back with a different dimension to previously seen, showing complete ease with the ball at his feet.
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Lineker added: “Mason Mount is another good signing. He’s an under-rated player because a lot of what he does goes under the radar — he presses so well and works hard.”
Mount is yet to score or assist in pre-season, and the best is yet to come. Manchester United’s new number seven was given the iconic shirt for a reason.
Lineker lukewarm on Hojlund
The former England striker did not reserve the same praise for Rasmus Hojlund, admitting he had not seen a lot of the young Dane.
He remarked: “Perhaps they see him more as one for the long term but I’m not convinced he’s going to make the difference for them.”
Well, that’s exactly it. United don’t expect £64 million worth of striker in 2023/24. He is only 20-years-old and has signed a contract which can be extended all the way to 2029.
Considering the lack of other strikers at United right now, there is space for Hojlund to make an impact this season if he is ready.