The Manchester United midfielder started his first game in months in the 0-0 draw at Sunderland, drawing criticism from former Liverpool star Michael Owen
Mason Mount’s father has hit out at Michael Owen, calling him a fool for his assessment of the Manchester United midfielder, who made his first start in five months against Sunderland last weekend. Mount played the full 90 minutes at the Stadium of Light after taking no part in the previous match – the 3-2 win over Liverpool.
The 27-year-old, who joined from Chelsea for £60million in 2023, has seen his time in the northwest heavily disrupted by injuries, limiting him to just 70 appearances across nearly three seasons. This season, Mount first picked up a knock in December, ruling him out of two games, before another setback sidelined him for six matches between February and March.
He returned to the squad for the 3-1 win over Aston Villa in March, but had played just 26 minutes of football until last weekend.
Get MEN Premium now for just £1 HERE – or get involved in our United WhatsApp group by clicking HERE. You can also join our United Facebook page by clicking HERE and don’t miss out on our brilliant selection of newsletters HERE.
Five months on since his knock at the back end of last year, he was handed the nod by Michael Carrick, starting in the goalless draw against the Black Cats last Saturday. Owen, speaking on Sky Sports’ coverage, stated that the midfielder has failed to justify the club’s significant investment.
“Mason Mount is working hard, but right now he’s not performing anywhere near the level Manchester United expected when they signed him,” he said. “He looks a little slow in possession, a bit laggy in transitions, and he’s not really influencing the game enough in midfield.
“You can clearly see United are missing players like Casemiro in the middle of the park because there’s no real control or authority there.
“And even someone like Benjamin Sesko helps the structure with his movement and presence higher up the pitch. At the moment, Sunderland look more energetic and sharper in midfield areas. Manchester United need more intensity and personality from Mount because games like this demand it.”
Get Man United’s new 2026/27 home kit
Manchester United have launched their new home kit for the 2026/27 season, inspired by the club’s heritage and featuring a classic polo collar with iconic adidas details.
The former Liverpool striker’s analysis drew a sharp response from Mount’s father, Tony, who highlighted his son’s long road back to fitness as the main reason behind any perceived rustiness.
“Maybe not starting a game for five months has something to do with looking rusty. Owen, you fool,” he wrote on Instagram.
Meanwhile, Mount remains confident in the contribution he can make to this United side.
“I will always back myself. I know what I’m about and what I can bring,” he previously told the BBC. “I love being a part of a massive club. It’s my third season and it’s flown. I’m a bit older now and I’ve got a bit more experience. There are going to be a lot more games next season.
Click here to find out the latest Manchester United news in our daily newsletter
Sky Sports, HBO Max, Netflix and Disney+ with Ultimate TV package
Sky has upgraded its Ultimate TV and Sky Sports bundle to now include HBO Max, Netflix, Disney+, discovery+ and Hayu, as well as 135 channels and full Sky coverage of the Premier League and EFL.
Sky broadcasts more than 1,400 live matches across the Premier League, EFL and more with at least 215 live from the top flight alongside Formula 1, darts and golf.
“Being a part of getting this club back to the top, where it deserves to be, is super special. I’ve had a little taste of winning something with the club, in the FA Cup. That was unbelievable. To do a Premier League? I can’t even imagine how special that would be.”
Carrick, meanwhile, is an admirer of the player and has highlighted the importance he has to the team. “He is certainly a team player,” said the United interim head coach.
“He is a player that I really like, and there is loads to come from Mason, we’ve just got to give him the time to get fit again and be patient with that, but he is certainly in a good place right now.”
Mount’s future, however, could be affected by United’s summer business, with the club keen to add at least two new midfielders. The likes of Carlos Baleba, Matues Fernandes, Elliot Anderson, Adam Wharton and Atalanta’s Ederson have all been linked as possible targets.
You must be logged in to post a comment Login