Manchester United's newest signing Mason Mount has admitted he "really enjoys" playing in a deeper midfield position.
Mount, who progressed through Chelsea's academy to win the Champions League with the London club, made his name as an attacking midfielder, but Erik ten Hag is expected to play him in a deeper role during his time at Old Trafford.
Although the Cobham graduate is a natural No.10, he's expected to play as a No.8 when wearing a red shirt and that's the role he occupied against Leeds on Wednesday afternoon as United won their opening pre-season game.
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United defeated Leeds 2-0 and Mount impressed despite playing a position that is relatively new to him. The 24-year-old started alongside Kobbie Mainoo and Hannibal Mejbri in midfield and he was key in build-up play in the first half.
Mount spoke to MUTV after the victory and he explained that he feels comfortable playing deeper in midfield.
"I really liked that role [No.8] today, being able to drop in deep and get on the ball and start the play from a bit deeper, but also having the freedom to get forward and get in the box and try to make the runs in behind and help the press," he said.
"I really enjoy that position, being able to do both sides and also being able to start off the press, like when I nearly had that chance. I thought it worked really well. We've had a tough week but great to have 45 minutes in the tank now."
Mount also discussed adapting to his new teammates in training and he said he already understands how Ten Hag wants to play.
"We've been working very hard, so it's good to put it into practice and play on the pitch," he added. "We've definitely been working on a few tactics coming into the game, obviously, the first week is focused on getting the legs going again.
"Getting distance in the legs and running, preparing for these games, but no, I've definitely got a great understanding of how the manager wants to work and how the boys play and we'll use these games to work at it more.
"In the second half, when the younger boys came on and played, I thought they were amazing. They were brilliant and it's really exciting for the club to see them come on and do this.
"When we turned up last night and arrived at the stadium, it was amazing support. They [the fans] came out and showed up for us today and it's amazing to see, this is what we want to play for and we want to make them proud.
"It's important to get the minutes in the legs but it's important to win as well and that's what we want to do this season."
