Manchester United manager Ruben Amorim has issued a firm defence of midfielder Mason Mount, directly countering stinging criticism from club legend Roy Keane. The public backing comes after Keane branded Mount's recent substitute appearance "schoolboy" level following United's disappointing 1-1 home draw with West Ham United.
Keane's Scathing Assessment After West Ham Draw
The Red Devils' midweek Premier League fixture at Old Trafford saw them surrender a lead, with Diogo Dalot's first-half opener cancelled out by a late Soungoutou Magassa equaliser for the Hammers. Mount entered the fray in the 79th minute, replacing Joshua Zirkzee, but was unable to help his side regain control of the match.
Analysing the performance for Sky Sports, former United captain Roy Keane delivered a brutal verdict. He specifically highlighted the lack of strength in depth and took aim at Mount's impact from the bench. "When you are trying to see a game off, I look at Mason Mount when he came on," Keane stated. "Some players take longer to get up to speed but he was like a schoolboy out there. You're looking for players to come on with presence. If anything they brought the levels down at United."
Amorim's Long-Standing Admiration for Mount
This criticism stands in stark contrast to the unwavering support Mount receives from his manager. Ruben Amorim's admiration for the 26-year-old England international is well-documented, dating back to his appointment in November last year. Shortly after taking charge, Amorim made his feelings abundantly clear in an interview with club media.
"Mason Mount… I have to tell you I love that kid," Amorim declared over twelve months ago. "You can look in his eyes that he wants this so bad. And this is the most important thing for me."
This support persisted even through a challenging campaign for Mount, who missed more than 20 games due to a significant hamstring injury. Speaking in March ahead of the player's return, Amorim reiterated his faith. "I really love Mason Mount," he told reporters. "I see him and know how he suffered. He's trying too much. Maybe he is thinking too much about everything. He was European champion, he is a talent. When a player does everything like he does, he will always have the support of everybody here at the club."
Leadership Qualities Shine Through
Amorim's praise extends beyond Mount's on-pitch abilities to his character and leadership within the squad. This was evident just days before the West Ham match, when Mount scored the winning goal in United's victory over Crystal Palace. At the full-time whistle, the midfielder was seen consoling young defender Leny Yoro after a difficult personal performance.
This act did not go unnoticed by the United boss. "For me, as a manager, it's really important," Amorim explained this week. "I think we should support each other because, in the end, we are the guys who can change everything."
The contrasting views set up an intriguing subplot as Manchester United prepare for their next fixture. The team travels to face Wolverhampton Wanderers at Molineux this weekend, aiming to return to winning ways after a run of inconsistent results that included a defeat to Everton, the win over Palace, and the draw with West Ham. The festive period will then bring further tests against Bournemouth and Aston Villa.
