'Convinced' - Erik ten Hag makes Mason Mount Manchester United prediction

Manager Erik ten Hag is 'convinced' Mason Mount will become a key player for Manchester United as he closes in on a return from a lengthy injury lay-off.

The midfielder, who joined the club from Chelsea last July, has been out for four months with a groin injury. He last featured for United in their 1-0 win over Luton Town at Old Trafford on November 11.

His most recent stint on the sidelines coupled with the injury he suffered back in August which forced him to miss five matches means the 25-year-old has made just 12 appearances for United. He was drafted in last summer to become a key figure in Ten Hag's first-choice midfield.

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Mount returned to full training at Carrington almost a week ago, though there are no guarantees he will feature in today's FA Cup quarter-final against Liverpool. Ten Hag, speaking prior to the 2-0 win over Everton last weekend, pencilled in the trip to Brentford on March 30 as a potential return date for the England international. Regardless of when he makes his long-awaited return, the United manager is confident Mount will prove his worth.

"I am convinced he will be [a key player]. He didn't have the chance to prove this point, but he will be a very good player for Manchester United," said Ten Hag.

"It is really unfortunate, really disappointing for him, but also for us when you have such a class player in your middle and you cannot play him. He has had three injuries, as we all know, so he didn't, at any time, get into a rhythm. But I am sure when he is fit, he will play, he will get into that rhythm and he will contribute to a successful Manchester