Mount has what it takes to reach summit
The Mail on Sunday’s Chief Scout is one of the leading Premier League scouts, with more than 20 years’ experience. He is responsible for discovering World Cup winners and global stars. To protect his access to confidential information we are keeping his identity secret... MASON MOUNT has been highlighted by Gareth Southgate as a potential England senior team player and praised by Aidy Boothroyd last week after his winner against Latvia for the Under-21 side. The Chelsea player is on loan at Derby this season, which could turn out to be an excellent move. Reviewing this season’s performances, you can see immediate improvement. Last season, he was on loan at Vitesse Arnhem but Derby represents a more intensive physical challenge.
POSITION Frank Lampard has him playing in attacking midfield which really suits his style, taking up positions in that pocket of space between midfield and the front line. It encourages his quick vision and passing ability.
SKILLS Mason (left) possesses a great natural touch and a ‘feel’ for a pass. He can hit long or pop short balls into the front man and then make small angled runs to receive a return ball.
He is very intelligent, taking up good positions on the pitch and, above all, he has the ability to time his final pass really well. Defensively he has improved also, his pressing of the ball shows more conviction but he still needs to develop the strength to be more efficient in the challenge. His technical level shows potential to play at the top of the Premier League.
PHYSICALITY He needs to improve physical aspects of his game, predominantly his strength and power. Stamina doesn’t seem to be a problem. He’s not particularly quick but I don’t see this as a negative because he has other qualities that neutralise this weakness.
SUMMARY There’s no doubt Mason has something the England team lacks: flair, imagination and skill on the ball. Much depends on this year at Derby. Can he combine this with the drive and conviction needed to progress? It’s a big physical and mental challenge for a young player to maintain a consistently high level week in, week out so he may need to be rested at some stage. But these are exciting times for this 19-year-old. England and Chelsea could have themselves a top player.