Mason Mount injury: What Erik ten Hag said about Man Utd midfielder - who could miss Everton clash

Erik ten Hag is facing a midfield shortage ahead of Manchester United’s Premier League clash against Everton this weekend.

Casemiro and Christian Eriksen have been ruled out through injury and Ten Hag explained on Friday that Mason Mount is also a major doubt. “Mason picked up an issue so we have to assess if he’s available for the game or not,” the United manager told MUTV.

The ex-Chelsea midfielder was spotted in training during the week but presumably suffered an injury in the club’s final days of preparation ahead of Sunday’s trip to Goodison Park.

It could leave United with just three regular midfield options in Sofyan Amrabat, Scott McTominay and Bruno Fernandes. Hannibal has also played a fringe role this season and could be an alternative for Ten Hag, while Kobbie Mainoo might make a first senior appearance of the season after a long-term ankle injury. The forgotten Donny van de Beek could even play some part, with the ex-Ajax midfielder playing just two minutes this season.

The Mount injury went somewhat under the radar, with Ten Hag not mentioning it in his press conference and United not drawing particular attention to the news on Friday.

The injury news is the latest setback in a disappointing start to Mount’s career at Old Trafford, following his transfer last summer for a fee of up to £60m. But the 2021 Champions League winner has managed just six starts, due to injury and a lack of selection. Mount’s downward curve has also seen him drop out of the England squad this season.

Meanwhile, Mount joins Rasmus Hojlund as a major injury doubt for this weekend, and it remains unclear whether Tyrell Malacia and Amd will be fit for the clash at Everton. Lisandro Martinez, Jonny Evans, Casemiro and Christian Eriksen will definitely miss the game due to injury.