Mason Mount helps transform Manchester United's biggest weakness into their strength

Mason Mount might not have been Manchester United's most obvious summer signing, but it didn't take long for him to show just why Erik ten Hag wanted him so much.

United's other transfer business will most likely dictate just how successful next season can be, yet from just his first 45 minutes, the addition of Mount already looks like a smart move that will make the rest of the team much better as a result.

The 24-year-old was at the heart of everything United did well in the opening exchanges of his first appearance against Leeds on Wednesday, not only with the ball at his feet but with the energy he brought to the press that helped assert his side's dominance.

If the focus of pre-season is to get players accustomed ahead of a season in Manchester, then the torrential rain and granite grey skies that stood over the Ullevaal Stadion were perfect preparation for what Mount can expect now that he has made the journey north.

REACTION: Man Utd vs Leeds highlights and reaction

Within the opening five minutes, he had already seen a free-kick and a corner cleared away before unleashing a rapid counter-attack that should have resulted in a goal as Hannibal saw his shot stopped well by Kristoffer Klaesson and Amad wasted the rebound.

That injection of energy pushed Leeds against the ropes, and seconds later they could have been behind when United pressed with real intensity. Mount robbed Jeremiah Mullen of the ball and could have rushed at goal, but instead strode forward a few yards and sent a chipped effort agonisingly over the bar.

Pre-season performances must be taken with a pinch of salt, though. Jadon Sancho and Anthony Martial were two standout stars a year ago, as was youngster Zidane Iqbal. One of those has already