Former Manchester United striker Alan Smith has delivered glowing praise for Mason Mount, claiming that the midfielder’s presence has noticeably elevated the team’s overall level of play. His comments came shortly after United’s crucial victory over Wolverhampton Wanderers, a match in which Mount played a central role both creatively and on the scoresheet.
The clash at Molineux proved to be one of Mount’s most complete performances since joining the Red Devils. Handed a starting spot by manager Ruben Amorim, the 26-year-old was deployed in an advanced playmaking role behind the forward line. From the opening whistle, Mount looked sharp—constantly drifting between the lines, creating pockets of space, and proving instrumental in United’s progression through the midfield.
Mount capped off his impressive display with a well-taken goal, a moment that highlighted both his intelligent movement and his growing understanding with Bruno Fernandes.
Speaking to Sky Sports after the match, Alan Smith could not hide his admiration.
“He was outstanding tonight,” Smith said emphatically. “Everything he did—his movement, his passing, his awareness—was top level. You could see the difference in United’s attacking fluidity with him on the pitch.”
A Complete Performance in Every Phase of Play
Smith emphasized that Mount’s impact extended far beyond the stat sheet. Beyond his goal and several key passes, Mount played a major role in helping United control the tempo of the match, especially in the second half when the Red Devils grew more dominant.
“Mason Mount showed exceptional quality with every action he was involved in,” Smith continued. “United looked a completely different side after the break, and a lot of that was because of him.”
Smith went on to break down Mount’s goal, praising the understanding between the midfielder and Bruno Fernandes.
“Look at the way he reads the situation,” Smith explained. “Mount knows exactly what Bruno is about to do. His timing, his composure—everything about that movement was elite. It was a superb bit of link-up play between two intelligent footballers.”
The sequence served as a reminder of Mount’s natural attacking instincts—traits United have often lacked when struggling to break down compact, defensive teams.
A Player Manchester United Have Been Waiting For
Since joining United from Chelsea, Mount’s time at Old Trafford has been disrupted heavily by injuries. Recurring fitness issues in his first two seasons forced him to spend more time in the treatment room than on the pitch. As a result, fans were left wondering whether they would ever see the dynamic, energetic midfielder who once lit up Stamford Bridge.
Smith believes that United have always needed a player of Mount’s profile, but circumstances never allowed the midfielder to show his true level—until now.
“His spell at United has been tough because he has suffered so many setbacks,” Smith said. “But this performance shows why the club brought him in. If he stays fit, he will be a massive asset for the rest of the season.”
Smith also stressed that Mount’s versatility will be crucial for Amorim, who continues to adjust United’s tactical structure as he molds the squad to his philosophy.
“He gives United something different—energy, creativity, intelligence. They have missed that kind of player for a long time.”United Edge Closer to the European Spots
The victory over Wolves did more than boost morale. It also lifted Manchester United into sixth place in the Premier League table with 24 points, putting them firmly back into contention for European qualification.
With Crystal Palace occupying fourth place on 25 points, the race for the Champions League spots is tightening. United will hope that their recent momentum—combined with Mount’s resurgence—can fuel a sustained push up the table.
Amorim, who has faced early criticism for inconsistency during the opening weeks of the season, may now begin to feel some relief. Mount’s return to form gives him a valuable creative leader in midfield, and with key defenders like Matthijs de Ligt and Diogo Dalot also returning from injury, the squad looks more complete heading into the winter period.
For Mount himself, the performance against Wolves could become a turning point—possibly the moment his United career truly begins.
As Alan Smith put it:
“If he keeps playing like this and stays healthy, he’ll be one of United’s most important players. The team is simply better with Mason Mount in it.”
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