Solskjaer raves about 17-year-old Man Utd starlet, set for role in first-team this season

Ole Gunnar Solskjaer has heaped praise on Mason Greenwood ahead of what looks set to be a breakthrough season for the Manchester United youngster.  

The 17-year-old striker made his first team debut last season and played against Perth Glory in the first friendly of the pre-season tour last week.

It’s a credit to Greenwood that he’s now considered a first team player under Solskjaer.

READ MORE: Solskjaer assures Man Utd star of first-team role despite below average displays last season

The boss raved about Greenwood’s attributes in a recent interview with BBC Sport.

Solskjaer said: “He’s a natural finisher, a natural footballer. Right-footed, left-footed. I don’t think he knows if he’s more predominant on his right or his left. 

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“He takes penalties with both feet and free-kicks with both feet. He finds space naturally.

“He’ll always end up with chances. He’ll score goals this year, I am 100% sure of that.” 

Greenwood got into great positions against Perth Glory, but his finishing let him down.

It was our first game back so that’s a harsh assessment – but it would be wrong of us to boast about the young lad after that performance alone.

That said, his record of 30 goals in 29 youth games last season suggests it won’t be long before his name is on the scoresheet.

The Europa League will present plenty of opportunities for Greenwood next season, as will the League Cup.

And, if United end up losing Romelu Lukaku at this point of the transfer window, with just over three weeks remaining for English clubs to make signings, I don’t think a replacement will be brought in. It sounds like Greenwood will be promoted and given plenty of game time.

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