Copying a former No.7 could inspire Mason Mount at Manchester United

The Ineos directors Sir Dave Brailsford and Tom Crotty sat a couple of dozen yards to Mason Mount's left at Old Trafford on Saturday. Their arrival should not cause Mount to shift uncomfortably in his seat just yet.

No, that is not a doctored picture by Kate Middleton. Mount really is back in Manchester United training after a four-month lay-off. A playing return could be delayed until after the spring internationals.

"He has remained upbeat and positive throughout his rehabilitation," the United website cheerfully communicated. "A diligent professional, Mount has worked closely with the club’s medical staff and displayed a work ethic that helped him to become one of the most decorated young players in the game.

"The England international’s return to fitness will bring great energy to the squad and the former Champions League winner cannot wait to get started again." United are playing all the hits. Whenever Mount returns, he needs to hit the ground running.

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Like most injured players, his stock has senselessly risen among a contingent of the fanbase, as if Mount's dozen appearances for United should be struck from the record.

Seven starts, five substitute appearances, one 90-minute outing, no goals and one assist. That goal contribution was in the League Cup against Crystal Palace, happy to hit the eject button themselves.

Mount lasted six starts in central midfield before he was relocated to the right-hand side. That stint against Brentford was even shorter: 63 minutes.

Whenever Mount has started in the Premier League, he has made way with United drawing or losing. His last