Jamie Carragher has raised a question mark on Manchester United’s decision to sign Mason Mount last summer despite having Bruno Fernandes in the team.
The former Liverpool defender questioned how Erik ten Hag will utilize both players when they are available for selection.
Bruno Fernandes was missing in action as United were beaten 4-0 by Crystal Palace while Mason Mount failed to inspire the team despite being among the first eleven.
Though Mount and Fernandes played in the same squad at the start of the season, Carragher believes Erik ten Hag has a big puzzle to solve.
MANCHESTER, ENGLAND – APRIL 27: Bruno Fernandes of Manchester United in action during the Premier League match between Manchester United and Burnley FC at Old Trafford on April 27, 2024 in Manchester, England.(Photo by Visionhaus/Getty Images)
Raising concerns over how Ten Hag is able to get the best out of both players, the former Liverpool defender told Sky Sports: “I must say when he [Mount] was brought in, even though I like him as a player, I did think how does that work with Bruno?
“Because Mason Mount is that player you play in a 4-3-3, he’s not a winger and he does not really have that pace, but in a 4-3-3, he will work back, he can press and get you that goal.
“But Bruno is not a player for a 4-3-3, he’s a number ten,” continued Carragher. “I don’t think he is disciplined to play… He (Mount) can help in terms of he’s in a number ten role. Bruno is not playing so you haven’t got two players who are bombing forward.
“We have highlighted before, no matter who plays in central midfield for United, at times they leave holes there because I think that is the instruction of the manager.
LONDON, ENGLAND – MAY 06: Mason Mount of Manchester United is challenged by Michael Olise of Crystal Palace during the Premier League match between Crystal Palace and Manchester United at Selhurst Park on May 06, 2024 in London, England. (Photo by Alex Pantling/Getty Images)
“But in terms of going forward for Mount, Bruno has to play – he is the best player. I am still not quite sure, at the start of next season, where both players play in the same team.”
Bruno Fernandes is currently injured but might be available for Manchester United’s next game and it’s left to see how Erik ten Hag will station him alongside Mason Mount.
