“One poor game”- Brad Friedel defends Chelsea playmaker from ‘unfair’ criticism

Brad Friedel defends ‘scapegoat’ Chelsea and England star Mason Mount amid heaps of criticism

Speaking to Online Casino (h/t Metro), former USMNT goalkeeper Brad Friedel has defended the ‘scapegoat’ Chelsea and England star Mason Mount amid massive criticism following his performance against the USA.

Mount was below-par in England’s goalless draw against an American side who were better on the night. Many pundits were not happy with the Chelsea star’s performance, including former England goalkeeper Rob Green who could not believe manager Gareth Southgate did not bring him off at all during the game (BBC Live).

The 23-year-old was replaced by Phil Foden in the 71st minute against IR Iran. But, the same substitution did not take place against the USA and Foden remained on the bench throughout.

But, Friedel thinks criticism of Mount after one bad match is unfair, here’s what he said (h/t Metro):

“I think criticism of Mount after one match is unfair. Everyone can have a bad performance and he’s been made a scapegoat a bit which isn’t right.”

“If Mount continues to have underwhelming performances then criticism is warranted but you can’t pick him out individually for one poor game.”

While calling out Mount for an underwhelming display is right, it is not his mistake that the manager did not bring him off to let Foden or any other player have a crack at hurting the opposition.

The 23-year-old’s form was up and down for Chelsea during the first half of the season. He scored two goals and assisted four in 21 appearances in all competitions.

His contract at Stamford Bridge expires in 18 months. Negotiations for a contract extension have been going on since the summer. As per the latest report from Daily Mail, the Englishman rejected a new £200,000-a-week contract offer. Liverpool and Juventus have been circling if the negotiation ends up not in favour of the Blues (Guardian).

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We want to see more of Mount in years to come. He has been great for us in the last two years, and irrespective of his England form, he is one of the key players for Chelsea.