In a recent post-match interview, Manchester United manager Erik ten Hag confirmed that Mason Mount was substituted in Saturday’s 2-1 Premier League defeat to Brighton & Hove Albion due to injury. The former Chelsea man had started a second consecutive Premier League fixture for the Red Devils at the Amex, following his 61-minute appearance in the victory over Fulham on matchday one. Mount’s debut campaign at Old Trafford had been plagued by fitness problems, but he managed to make an impact on the game on Saturday while playing in the number 10 position behind Bruno Fernandes.
However, Mount’s afternoon was cut short at half time, as he was replaced by Joshua Zirkzee. Ten Hag clarified that Mount’s substitution was not tactical but rather forced due to another unspecified injury. The Dutchman did not disclose further details about Mount’s issue and expressed uncertainty about the severity of the injury and how long Mount might be sidelined. He mentioned, “He had an issue, he mentioned an issue and I didn’t want to take a risk. I don’t know how much of a worry it is in this moment.” Ten Hag praised the impact of substitute Zirkzee.
Before Mount’s substitution, Manchester United faced a setback as Danny Welbeck scored against his former club with a goal that marked his 100th career milestone. However, the Red Devils managed to equalize through Amad Diallo’s deflected strike off Jan Paul van Hecke that deceived Brighton’s goalkeeper Jason Steele.
Despite the brief joy of the equalizer, Man United suffered a late blow when Joao Pedro scored a header in injury time to secure Brighton’s second win of the season. Ten Hag criticized his defenders for failing to mark Pedro or prevent the cross that led to the winning goal. He highlighted the need for improvement in defending against crosses and set pieces.
Looking ahead, Manchester United will face Liverpool in a highly anticipated match at Old Trafford next Sunday. Ten Hag also addressed Jadon Sancho’s absence from the matchday squad for the Brighton game, hinting at potential changes and adjustments for the upcoming fixtures.
