Ten Hag hails Mount as 'a complete midfield player' after Man Utd debut

Erik ten Hag described Mason Mount as ‘the complete midfielder’ after his Manchester United debut ended with a 2-0 win over old rivals Leeds in soggy Oslo on Wednesday.

Mount played 45 minutes at the Ullevaal Stadion following a £60million move from Chelsea and brought the kind of dynamism to United’s midfield that Ten Hag feels has been lacking.

The 24-year-old led United’s press and at one point dispossessed Jeremiah Mullen before floating a 40-yard chip onto the roof of the net with goalkeeper Kristoffer Klaesson stranded.

Mount was also able to launch United’s attacks from deep at every opportunity, and produced an exquisite pass to Amad Diallo which led to the best chance of the first half.

Ten Hag made 11 changes at half-time and, in fact, it was the youngsters who made the breakthrough against a mixed Leeds side as Noam Emeran and Joe Hugill struck in the second period.

Mount was more than satisfied with his first appearance in a United shirt, though, saying: ‘I really liked the role I was in today. Being able to drop in and build up the play from a bit deeper, but with that license to go forward and make runs into the box and be involved in more attacks.

‘I like to start off the press, to give the opposition something to think about and then to combine that with an attacking threat and rhythm of our own.’

Ten Hag was delighted with Mount’s contribution, adding: ‘We expected him to be comfortable. We know his capabilities and he will absolutely increase the level of our team.

‘I think you have already seen today what he can bring. He is a complete midfield player who suits Manchester United and can help us achieve our goals.’

United hope to add more new signings and talks are at an advanced stage with Inter Milan over goalkeeper Andre Onana.

However, the two clubs have yet to agree a fee and it’s understood that United have not ruled out keeping Dean Henderson as No.1 next season if they can’t reach a compromise.

Henderson has been lined up for a £20m move to Nottingham Forest after spending last season on loan at the City Ground.

Asked if he is still an option, Ten Hag replied: ‘Yes, of course. I followed him through the whole season. Goalkeeper is a key position but I am happy with the players we have now.’