Thread by @UtdXclusive

Mount's role in Ten Hag's desire for an attacking midfielder is crucial due to his exceptional skill set and versatility (positional rotations in-game).

Having a combination of possession and out-of-possession attributes make him one of the best in this profile.

a Thread.

Mount (24y) has athleticism, technique, awareness and willingness - a well-rounded attacking ‘8’/’10’!

His profile pie projects – a very good carrier, brilliant receiver, an intense presser, a fine finisher and a reliable creator.

*Individualistic and cognitive team qualities.

Before we assess Mount’s qualities & traits, lets look at why ten Hag wants Mount?

he is not interested in Mount taking part in phase 1,
he’d rather have him occupy 1 of the 5 vertical channels where he can receive and distribute & is much closer to the box in order to attack.

Having Mount drop deep from the attacking 5/6 in the 3-1-6 or 3-2-5 means 1 attacker less, 1 progressive option less for the defenders.

ten Hag doesn't want to lose that numerical superiority in the opp's half for attacking & pressing purpose, pegs back 1 of opp. player too.

Mount applies a variety of tricks and technique for his shots. He can strike the ball on the run, can volley it, place it on either side, bottom or top corner.

Most importantly, he strikes early and catches the defender and keeper off-guard.

Dependable left foot avoids second guessing on the weaker side, need not take an extra touch, can finish first time even on his weaker foot.

He can wrap the ball, knuckle shoot or hook the ball & score from outside the box against the run of play.

Having a firm left foot also enables Mount to go on the outside (inside left channel/half-spaces) and quickly flash it across the face of the goal.

Ditto on the RHS as well which leads to easy tap-ins for someone following it up like Rashford or Højlund*

Scoring from set-pieces has improved but there are a lot of under-hit deliveries that fail to clear the first man (or over-hits). Few that curve or looped well and hang in the air for easy headers.

Mount is particularly strong at taking dead-balls.

Mount is quick to rob a player which makes him a key cog in the (counter) pressing machine that United aspire to be under ten Hag.

After he regains possession, he is able to find a player through or quickly release a shot from the edge of the box.

Mount is a sublime receiver of the ball whether that is using simply his touch or turning while receiving the ball under pressure-

Back to front in a fraction getting rid of his marker, gives him extra time & space to compute & execute his next action(s)

Mount's availability makes him a huge asset for ten Hag.

Has the stamina & physical endurance to constantly run the length of the pitch, every week and maintain top condition for 50+ games in a season.

Commendable! imagine the exertion (turns, dribbles, tackles, sprints...)

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