Published 11:39 IST, September 20th 2019
Mason Greenwood the youngest goalscorer leads Man Utd past Astana
Mason Greenwood became the youngest goalscorer for the United European competition. On Sept 19, he saved Manchester United by shooting a goal to beat FC Astana
17-year-old Mason Greenwood became the youngest goalscorer for the Manchester United European competition. On September 19, he saved Manchester United from an embarrassing start at the Europa League Campaign by shooting a goal to beat Kazakhstan champions Astana by 1-0 at Old Trafford. Greenwood was able to finish just under 17 minutes from the time under Nenad Eric. The United Manchester manager Ole Gunnar Solskjaer claimed that Greenwood is one of the best finishers the team has got.
Solskjaer said "In and around the box he’s one of the best finishers we’ve got and I’m happy he got his goal. I’m sure he’ll go home tonight and be happy with that one.”
"A decent start"
Solskjaer made a decision after Saturday's Premier League win over Leicester where he made nine changes and gave the youngsters of the team a chance to impress. Greenwood joined the starting line-up with other teenagers Angel Gomes, Tahith Chong, and Axel Tuanzebe. Solskjaer at first was alarmed by the way his side's performance dropped off after Frederico Rodrigues hit the woodwork and Eric made two brilliant saves to deny Marcus Rashford who made his name back in 2016 Europa League for a circumstantial injury crisis against Danish Club Midtjylland.
“In games like these, you can make sure you win the game in the first 20 minutes if you take one or two of the chances, and then you can enjoy it. You can see some of our lads needed games. It’s pleasing that we got three points and that’s it – we got off to a decent start in that respect.” Solskjaer added.
An impressive goal
The 17-year -old showed great feet with an impressive goal as in the 73rd minute he shot a low drive through Eric's legs. Solskjaer has been glowing in his praise for Greenwood's efforts ever since. However, he also claimed that the team is already prepared for the West Ham match on Sunday. The team has been looking forward to the match. He said, “Tomorrow (Friday) will be a recovery day for everyone and Saturday a preparation day, so we're set for that one.”
Updated 12:17 IST, September 20th 2019