Solskjaer hails Manchester United star Mason Greenwood as a natural number nine

According to The Mirror, Manchester United manager, Ole Gunnar Solskjaer has heaped praise on promising youngster Mason Greenwood.

The 19-year-old enjoyed his breakout season last time around and is amongst our best young talents. While his performances this season have not been up to par, there is little doubt regarding his ability and promise.

Also capable of playing upfront, Greenwood’s ability as a number nine has found praise from Solskjaer.

“I think we have found a good way to develop him and he might end up as a No.9.”

Solskjaer’s comments are significant given United’s need for a striker this summer. While we have been linked to the likes of Erling Haaland and Harry Kane, neither will come cheap if at all.

While Greenwood can do a job for us, he still has some ways to go before making the position his own. Solskajer believes the youngster needs to develop physically to hold his own upfront.

“Maybe in the future he can play as a central striker. I still think that’s a few years away.”

Learning from the best!

In Edinson Cavani, Greenwood has one of the best in the trade to base his game on. The Uruguayan veteran was amongst the best in his position voer the last decade.

While he may be past his prime, he still has much to offer in terms of teaching young players. Solskjaer also revealed that both players share a good relationship.

“Playing with Edinson Cavani has been a top example. Edi leads by example even though the language barrier has made it a bit difficult.”

Greenwood may very well develop into the clinical striker we need and crave. But for now Solskjaer believes he is better off playing out wide.

“At the moment, I think Mason is more suited to playing that wide role, dropping into pockets, finding space and running in behind.”

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Despite his age, Greenwood has already made 96 appearances for United across all competitions. During this time he has scored 24 goals and assisted 10 more. (h/t Transfermarkt)

He still has a long way to go and if he develops as expected, United have a real player on their hands.