Mason Mount’s father, Tony, fired back at Michael Owen, labeling him a ‘fool’ for criticizing the Manchester United midfielder’s recent performance. Mount started his first match in five months during the goalless draw against Sunderland at the Stadium of Light, playing the full 90 minutes after sitting out the previous 3-2 victory over Liverpool.
Mount’s Challenging Time at United
The 27-year-old joined Manchester United from Chelsea for £60 million in 2023, but injuries have restricted him to just 70 appearances over nearly three seasons. This campaign, a December knock sidelined him for two games, followed by a February-to-March injury that kept him out for six more. He returned briefly for the 3-1 win over Aston Villa in March, logging only 26 minutes before the Sunderland clash.
Interim head coach Michael Carrick selected Mount for the starting lineup against the Black Cats, marking his return after months on the sidelines.
Owen’s Critical Analysis
During Sky Sports coverage, former Liverpool striker Michael Owen questioned whether Mount justifies the hefty transfer fee. “Mason Mount is working hard, but right now he’s not performing anywhere near the level Manchester United expected when they signed him,” Owen stated. “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.”
Father’s Sharp Response
Tony Mount responded swiftly on Instagram, pointing to his son’s injury recovery as the cause of any rustiness. “Maybe not starting a game for five months has something to do with looking rusty. Owen, you fool,” he posted.
Mount’s Self-Belief and Carrick’s Support
Mount exudes confidence in his ability to impact the team. “I will always back myself. I know what I’m about and what I can bring,” he stated previously. “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.
“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 praised Mount’s team ethic. “He is certainly a team player,” the interim coach said. “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.”
Potential Summer Changes
Mount’s role may evolve with Manchester United’s plans to sign at least two new midfielders this summer. Names linked include Carlos Baleba, Matheus Fernandes, Elliot Anderson, Adam Wharton, and Atalanta’s Ederson.
