EFL Cup 2018/19: 4 reasons why Derby County could upset Manchester United

#3: It’s a chance for Mount to prove his qualities

Mason Mount could earn an England call-up if he plays well against United

During England’s stirring run in the World Cup this summer, plenty of talk was mooted about the future of the Three Lions, most notably in the form of three players who were actually invited to Russia to train with the first team; Ryan Sessegnon of Fulham, Phil Foden of Manchester City, and Mason Mount of Chelsea.

Since then, Sessegnon has been fighting hard to get used to the quality of the Premier League, while Foden has barely played a game. Mount on the other hand has made a loan move to Derby where he’s hit the ground running, scoring 5 goals in 11 games and also adding one assist. For many observers, he’s been Derby’s most outstanding player as they’ve climbed to 6th place in the Championship.

England boss Gareth Southgate has already been to watch Mount once – during last week’s game against Blackburn Rovers – but observers still doubt his England qualities, at this point anyway, due to his lack of experience against top-level sides. But if he can help Derby to upset Manchester United this week, then that might all change.

If he can help the Rams shoot down the side that finished 2nd in the Premier League last season, then surely that would prove that he’s ready for the top – and for an England call-up, too. And so you can almost guarantee he’ll be on top form for the game, making him a dangerous opponent for Mourinho’s men.