Mount Aims for Continued Momentum at United Ahead of Newcastle Clash

omidbasir- Mason Mount has started in Manchester United’s last three matches and is eager to make it four in a row when Newcastle United visits Old Trafford on Boxing Day. For a player whose career at United has often been stymied just as momentum was building, the opportunity to string together consecutive appearances holds considerable importance.

In reflecting on his journey, Mount acknowledges that his ability to endure challenging moments was shaped long before the pressures of elite football came to bear. In an interview with Sky Sports, the England international discussed his childhood, which was marked by ambition and clarity.

“As a kid, it was always about making it into the first team,” Mount stated. “In my younger years, I was fortunate to play in strong teams that won frequently. However, as one matures, it’s clear that there will be both highs and lows. The downs I faced, such as losing significant matches or finals, were crucial learning experiences that required resilience.”

One poignant moment that illustrates Mount’s struggles occurred just over a year ago during a Manchester derby. After being given a starting role by new head coach Ruben Amorim, Mount lasted only 12 minutes before an injury forced him to leave the pitch. The image of him slowly walking toward the tunnel, supported by United’s medical team, epitomized the frustration of a player determined to contribute but frequently hindered by physical setbacks.

“It was extremely difficult, especially with the manager just coming in and me starting to find my place in the team,” he recalled. “When I felt the injury, I knew it would be serious. It took a few days to process, but my focus remained on recovery—what could I do to return as quickly and as fit as possible?”

Now, that mindset is paying off. Amorim’s confidence in Mount has resulted in a player who injects intensity, discipline, and balance into United’s midfield. Even in losses, Mount’s contributions have not gone unnoticed. Gary Neville remarked during a recent 2-1 defeat to Aston Villa that United appears improved when Mount is on the field, a sentiment that goes beyond mere statistics.

“There are many unseen elements, but I believe that my energy, along with that of my teammates, is critical on the pitch,” Mount stated. “Initiating a press or even pressing the goalkeeper when it seems unwarranted can motivate the rest of the team to follow suit. I have been positioned higher up, allowing me to attack and get into the box, while also dropping back to support the midfield when necessary.”

Mount is optimistic that his best performances are still ahead, shaped by the lessons learned over recent seasons. “I feel close to returning to my best form,” he stated. “With the experiences I’ve accumulated, I believe I can reach an even higher level than before. The past couple of years have been challenging in terms of consistency, but after a strong pre-season and numerous match minutes, I sense I’m nearing a full comeback.”

As his form with the club improves, thoughts inevitably turn to international opportunities. A spot in England’s World Cup squad once seemed assured for a player pivotal to Chelsea’s 2021 Champions League victory. Now, however, it is a goal rather than a foregone conclusion. England head coach Thomas Tuchel, familiar with Mount’s capabilities from their time together, may favor him, provided he maintains strong club performances.

“I always believe it begins with club performance. If I excel here, it increases my chances of being selected for the national squad,” he explained regarding his World Cup aspirations. “If we perform well and win games, the opportunity will be there. I am well acquainted with Thomas, and I will do everything possible to secure my place in the squad.”

Mount’s next opportunity to demonstrate his progress arises against Newcastle, a team currently in strong form with just one defeat in their last seven matches across all competitions. This match represents yet another step in a journey characterized by patience and persistence.