Manchester United came back from behind to record a 4-1 thrashing over Newcastle United on Boxing day, getting back to winning ways in the Premier League after a sorrowful loss at Watford in the weekend.
Anthony Martial bagged a brace in the route, but Mason Greenwood won the plaudits for his heroics after getting a much-deserved start. The 18-year-old blasted a shot into the net to complete the comeback for United and gained praised from his coach for his performance.
Ole Gunnar Solskjaer hailed his young striker’s ability and how good he is operating with both feet when it comes to finishing off chances. He said, “I think Mason is 50-50 with his left and right, probably 60-60 because he is so good with both of them. It’s hard for defenders.”
“There are not many I can remember like that, but he has every single technique as well. He can strike it or place it. Mason can hit it with both feet and he’s an exceptional finisher.”, the Norwegian further added.
But the gaffer also insisted that the teenager still has a lot of improvements to make in order to become the lethal striker he’s shown the capability of becoming.
Solskjaer explained, “He’s got the lot to improve on. He’s young and he’s got to learn the game. He knows what he needs to learn. He’s been told. I can remember when I was 18 and I wasn’t anywhere near playing at the level he is. He is learning and growing as a human being as well.”
“He’ll grow more and more. We’re not going to see the best of Mason for a couple of years.”, Solskjaer also insisted.
He linked his growth to that off Marcus Rashford, who is having the best goal-scoring season of his career and suggested that Greenwood should learn from his senior striker.
Solskajer expressed, “Marcus is 22 now and he sprung onto the scene at a similar age to Mason, more or less. We’re seeing maturity in his game. Mason has to learn how to head it as well as Marcus did today, because it was a fantastic goal.”
The Norwegian is cautious of the threat their next opponents Burnley bring, but is confident that his young squad can recover well for Saturday’s game despite playing on Thursday.
He said, “It’s a different type of game in 48 hours – Burnley away – you need to roll your sleeves up and take the fight. That’s the positive thing that you’ve got young kids. Because they’ll recover quicker. It’s harder for a 30/32-year-old, but, for these boys, they’re ready in 48 hours.”
It’s to be seen whether Greenwood starts consecutive games or is replaced with Dan James after impressing against Newcastle. The Red Devils now have three consecutive away games going into the new year.
Having only won a handful of away games in the Premier League, Solskjaer side will be desperate to continue their winning run with a compelling performance at Burnley.
You must be logged in to post a comment Login