This article is part of Football FanCast’s Pundit View series, which provides opinion and analysis on recent quotes from journalists, pundits, players and managers…
Speaking after Manchester United’s 4-0 triumph over AZ Alkmaar, Ole Gunnar Solskjar has lauded Mason Greenwood after the teenager’s goal-scoring display.
What did he say?
The Red Devils brushed aside their Dutch opponents with ease in a scintillating second-half performance that saw them net all four of their goals. And Greenwood was at the heart of all the action, scoring twice and earning a penalty for Juan Mata to convert.
And after watching his display on Thursday night in the Europa League, Solskjaer delivered a glowing tribute of the enormous potential the 18-year-old possesses, even comparing him to United hero Wayne Rooney.
He said (as quoted by Sky Sports): “He’s a natural footballer but the closer he gets to goal, the more dangerous he is. Right foot, left foot – nightmare probably for defenders. He needs to develop his heading then he can be a proper striker.
“I’ve seen a few good young players. I played with Wayne Rooney, but in terms of natural finishing, Mason is one of the best I’ve seen. I’m not afraid of playing him in the Premier League. Not at all. But it’s about sharing the minutes and finding the right minutes for him. Of course he is ready to play in the Premier League.”
Premier League Ready
Make no mistake about it, the most important part of Solskjaer’s appraisal of his talented forward is his admission that Greenwood is “ready” to play in the Premier League. Up until now, the 18-year-old has been on the side-lines in the top-flight, failing to get a genuine look-in.
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The academy graduate has made 12 appearances in the Premier League, but that has only equated to just 217 minutes of football. But after yet another starring display in the Europa League, surely Solskjaer cannot ignore his credentials for any longer. He has shown he can cut it in senior football in the limited time he has been given, and now it’s time for the United boss to unleash him in the place where the stakes are at its highest.
Meanwhile, Manchester United fans have hailed this ace after his impressive display against AZ Alkmaar.