All-time great Barcelona legend Lionel Messi hardly offers his opinion on other players, but has on this occasion felt compelled to heap praise on Mason Mount, who had been enjoying a great season in the Premier League before the coronavirus pandemic rudely interrupted the season and brought it to a halt.
Messi has felt it fit to say that Chelsea’s Mason Mount has what it takes to become “one of the best” players in the world.
Mount has made 43 appearances for the Blues and has turned out for England four times while shining in his breakthrough Premier League campaign with his six goals having also played a part in the Blues climbing to as high as fourth in the table, only three points clear of nearest rivals Manchester United.
The Blaugrana legend said of Mount, “Having watched him play he has the potential to be one of the best.”
The Argentine isn’t the only one to praise Mount in recent months, as the youngster’s boss Frank Lampard warmly hailed the start he made at Chelsea.
“He’s done a lot,” said Lampard in pre-season. “Coming back here, obviously I worked with him last year, and I’m really happy with how he’s trained and his status within the group.
“The players recognise quality instantly, but they also recognise work rate and character. Mason’s got all of those and he’s given me a problem.
“Ross Barkley’s also had a good pre-season and Ruben Loftus-Cheek will be back later on. It’s good because they’re all adaptable and can play in a variety of positions amongst themselves.
“I couldn’t ask for more from what Mason’s done.”
Sky Sports pundit Graeme Souness also saw it fit to compliment Mount: “I thought he was fabulous (against Tottenham). That day Chelsea were almost faultless. The only criticism you have is they didn’t score enough goals.
“They played with real purpose in midfield and the ball was always played forward. I think he (Frank Lampard) has made his mind up that he plays Jorginho or Kovacic.
“I think if you are an England manager you have got to be looking at him very closely. I know he is young. Starting with him, building your midfield around him.
“He silky, sees a great picture, has brilliant technique, looks to be a great type and works his socks off.
“A real team player with having all that ability it is what you want.
“He is a star in the making and I would think looking at him and his personality and the way he reacts to things on the field he is not someone who will allow the big hit to arrive on his shoulders. I’m a big fan of his.”