Solskjaer: Mason has been different class

The Academy graduate endured a 10-game spell without a goal during December and January, but scored United’s first in the memorable 3-2 win over Liverpool in the last round of the Emirates FA Cup.

 

Ahead of our fifth-round clash with West Ham on Tuesday, Solskjaer was asked how he feels the 19-year-old is progressing after some encouraging signs in our last few games.

“Ah, Mason was different class,” eulogised the manager. “I thought he was the standout performer on the pitch [against Everton]. He just didn't get the goal that his performance deserved.

 

“I think the last few games, if you look at him closely – yeah, I know we scored nine against Southampton – but if you look at his performance, I thought his performance was top.”

The Norwegian feels working alongside the club’s other leading forwards is benefitting Greenwood – the youngster could be seen deep in conversation with the experienced Edinson Cavani during the win over Liverpool.

 

“He's improved and matured immensely, and he's working with some of the top forwards in the country, of course,” said Solskjaer.

 

“He’s learning off them, and it's exciting to see that he's come over his blip and is playing really well.”

Greenwood scored 17 goals last term in a breakthrough season, but has found the net more infrequently this campaign.

 

The Liverpool goal was his fourth of 2020/21, but Greenwood also chipped in with an assist for Marcus Rashford in the record-equalling with over Southampton last week, and caused Toffees full-back Lucas Digne all kinds of problems in the 3-3 draw with Everton four days later.

 

The ambipedal, Bradford-born finisher will hope to add to his tally this week, with United set to face West Ham and West Brom.