Ole Gunnar Solskjaer has played a huge role in Mason Greenwood’s progression at Manchester United.
Greenwood had a remarkable campaign last year, scoring 18 goals which helped him earn his first England cap.
However, it was a shocking start to the 2020/21 season for Greenwood after he was embroiled in a controversy over braching COVID-19 protocols.
The 19-year-old’s form deserted him in the weeks that followed, but he now looks back to his best.
Many people have urged Solsjaer to play Greenwood as a striker rather than a right-winger during this period, but the manager has resisted the temptation.
The Norweigan manager has explained why he prefers the youngster on the right flank.
He said: “Mason isn’t just a natural finisher – he’s a natural footballer. He is so smooth and he’s matured so much this season.”
“You can see his body has developed and he’s getting stronger. His consistency is getting better and better and he will start scoring more goals, that’s for sure.”
“I have been really impressed and happy with his development this season. He’s come through that difficult patch as a stronger person and a better player.
“Maybe in the future, he can play as a central striker, but I still think that’s a few years away. Being a centre-forward in the Premier League is probably the hardest position to play.”
“At the moment, I think Mason is more suited to playing that wide role, dropping into pockets, finding space and running in behind.”
“I don’t want him with his back to goal and having two centre-backs up his backside. I think we have found a good way to develop him, but he might end up as a No 9.”
This indicates that United has no intentions to use him as a first-choice striker in the near future.
With Edinson Cavani’s future at Old Trafford still in doubt, we may see the Red Devils stepping into the market to find a new number-nine.
