Whether as a No 10 or in a deeper role, £55m Mason must now Mount challenge to start every game

MASON Mount hugged Kath on reception, head chef Omar Meziane and some fans who'd been invited to Carrington when he made his first visit to the club's training complex after signing for United this summer.

- STEVEN RAILSTON

A wide smile didn't leave Mount's face throughout the afternoon while he fulfilled his club media commitments. He made a warm impression and it was impossible not to want him to succeed.

But there have been 120 days since he officially signed from Chelsea and Mount could probably do with a hug himself. His move to Manchester has not gone as hoped and he's already lost his place in the starting team.

Mount said he was 'absolutely buzzing' to be at United when he signed and it would only be natural if his enthusiasm had tempered, with the harsh reality of wearing a red shirt having been laid bare in the last few months.

The negotiations to sign Mount weren't straightforward, but he always felt attainable this summer because Chelsea were open to a sale and, rather crucially, the player was enthused by the prospect of signing for United.

United had three bids rejected for Mount before coming to an agreement with Chelsea and a deal worth an initial worth £55million, with a potential £5m in add-ons, was eventually struck.

Erik ten Hag had followed Mount's career since his loan spell in the Eredivisie with Vitesse and he made signing the 24-year-old his priority midfield signing, to freshen up the centre of the pitch and provide energy.