“Bench Him Before It’s Too Late” – Roy Keane Slams Manchester United Star After Nightmare Display in 4-1 Humbling by Newcastle
Manchester United’s season hit yet another low as they were thrashed 4-1 by Newcastle United at St. James’ Park — and club legend Roy Keane has launched a scathing attack on one of United’s biggest-name players. Following the embarrassing defeat, Keane didn’t hold back, questioning the inclusion of midfielder Mason Mount, who once again failed to justify his place in the starting XI.
“His performance clearly shows that he is doing more harm than good to the chemistry of the team. His gameplay was sloppy and was quite disappointing. Keep him on the bench now before it’s too late,” Keane fumed during a brutally honest post-match analysis on Sky Sports, rating Mount’s display as a “5/10 at best” and urging United’s manager to make a bold decision.
Mount, who arrived at Old Trafford from Chelsea in a £60 million deal, was expected to bring energy, creativity, and composure to United’s midfield. But in the calamitous 4-1 defeat to Newcastle, he was anything but that. Worse still, he recorded fewer touches than backup goalkeeper Altay Bayındır — who didn’t even leave the bench.
Anonymity on the Pitch
The England international appeared off the pace from the very first whistle. Mount was slow in transitions, failed to offer any defensive cover, and frequently gave the ball away in dangerous areas. In a midfield that was already overwhelmed by Newcastle’s high press and intensity, Mount’s lack of presence made matters worse.
His passes lacked conviction, his movement off the ball was static, and his usual pressing game was nowhere to be found. At times, it was hard to even tell he was on the pitch. For a player with such a high profile and hefty transfer fee, his impact was alarmingly nonexistent.
Keane Voices What the Fans Are Thinking
Roy Keane’s fiery critique resonated deeply with United fans who flooded social media in frustration.
“You can’t carry passengers in this team, especially not ones who are supposed to be leaders in midfield,” Keane added.
“This is Manchester United. You don’t get free rides here. If you’re not performing, you sit.”
“More Touches on the Bench Than the Pitch?”
The most damning statistic of the night? Mount had fewer touches than Altay Bayındır — a goalkeeper who didn’t even feature. The fact that this stat is even possible paints a grim picture of Mount’s contribution to the match.
A Test for Rúben Amorim
Now, all eyes are on new manager Rúben Amorim, who’s been tasked with steadying United’s sinking ship. Will he keep faith in Mount, or will he make the ruthless decision and bench the underperforming midfielder?
With pressure building from both pundits and fans, Amorim faces a critical call: continue persisting with a player who’s underdelivering, or shake things up and send a clear message that no one is untouchable — not even Mason Mount.