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Evening Standard
Evening Standard
Sport
Andy Sims

Graham Potter sends Manchester United message on Mason Mount with Chelsea reminder

Graham Potter was not surprised by Mason Mount's stunning Europa League cameo, but hopes his rejuvenation does not extend to West Ham's trip to Manchester United.

Mount, who played under Potter at Chelsea, has missed around 50 matches due to injury since his controversial switch to Old Trafford in July 2023.

But he came on as a substitute during Thursday night's European showdown with Athletic Bilbao and swung the game in United's favour with two spectacular goals.

Chelsea did not want to lose their homegrown midfielder but were unable to agree a new contract with him throughout Potter's brief tenure.

"A pleasure to work with, I have to say. Really, really, really good guy who gave his best every day," said the Hammers boss.

"Fantastic quality. His goals the other night is what Mason is, what he's about. He's got that capacity to do that. He did that in the Champions League for Chelsea against AC Milan.

"So, I know his quality. He's probably had a tough few years, I would say, because of the situation with Chelsea and then going to a new club and maybe injuries.

"But the quality of the person is at the highest level and the quality of the player is also at the highest level.

"From my perspective I hope, as much as I like Mason, that it's another week before he gets back to where he can be.

"I have nothing but respect for Mason as a person and as a player. He was going through a tough time with Chelsea and I'm sure he's had a tough time since.

"But I know the character, I know the person, it'll only make him stronger."

Full-back Aaron Wan-Bissaka joined West Ham from Old Trafford last summer and heads back to his old club as a contender for the Hammers' player of the year award.

"I've been really impressed with him. I'm not sure he's played at as high a level as he's playing at the moment," added Potter.

"I think he's in as good a form as he's ever been. He's pushing himself. He's been a real bonus.

"I think he's not at the absolute maximum as well. He can still improve, he can still get better. So that's exciting for him and for us."

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