Mason Greenwood has enjoyed something of a breakthrough season at Manchester United and is going from strength to strength.
He has given an interview to the Daily Mail containing interesting insights into his relationship with Phil Foden, the hottest young prospect across town at Manchester City.
Much of his football this term has come from the right of midfield, despite his natural role being through the middle, but also experienced a new role on international duty with England Under 21s.
Foden mentoring Greenwood on international duty
Foden and Greenwood are both England internationals of the future and with the former being a year older and having been involved with Aidy Boothroyd’s side for longer, he has helped his cross-town rival.
Greenwood said: “Phil was one of the youngest at the Euros last year, so he’s been in my position and that really does help me.
“Phil’s just told me to grab the chance if I get it, do the best I can.”
The interview says that the pair don’t socialise away from football but the relationship can be fruitful for both, who can empathise with the others’ experience as hot, young prospects in their home cities and all the trappings it brings.
Greenwood may hope he doesn’t need to remain quite as patient as Foden has needed to at the Etihad, but the influence of the City man should be a good one.
Can Greenwood play off the left?
Greenwood also played from the left wing in the Young Lions’ 3-0 away win against Albania, a game which saw him make his full debut.
And on his versatility, he said: “It was a different experience in Albania, a good one.
“I like playing different roles — anywhere across that front three — and it was a good night for me. I was a little bit unlucky when I hit the post.”
In truth, he’s unlikely to be needed on the left, given that it is Marcus Rashford and Daniel James’ best position, with Anthony Martial and Jesse Lingard also among the players capable of playing there.
A right-wing option is much more what United need right now, and it will be interesting to see where Greenwood settles down.
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