Mason Mount has been awarded a 4/10 for his performance by Football London for Chelsea’s shock defeat to Dinamo Zagreb in the Champions League this evening.
Mislav Orsic’s early counter-attack goal was enough for the hosts to pick up a famous win, against a Chelsea side who struggled to offer anything despite being far superior to their opponents on paper.
No one really stood out for the Blues, who were operating close to full strength despite Thiago Silva not travelling to Croatia.
Thomas Tuchel elected to start Mason Mount deeper alongside Mateo Kovacic, however he struggled to impact the game at all and often looked lost when Zagreb launched attacks.
Football London have described his performance as the story of his campaign so far, with him struggling for form in the opening weeks of the season.
Mount slammed for performance
They said: “Deployed in the double pivot alongside Mateo Kovacic, the academy graduate struggled in the opening period to affect the game with the ball. And out of possession, Mount was pulled across the pitch as he attempted to – unsuccessfully – close off space that emerged.
“The England international was moved further forward after the break and was perhaps a tad fortunate not to be punished for an elbow that caught a Dinamo player. It was lightly thrown out of frustration by Mount, who has struggled for form so far this term. Did have a late opportunity, the Blues’ best chance, saved.”
While a red card would’ve been harsh for the 23-year-old, it summed up his frustrations well after back-to-back campaigns being the club’s player of the season.
The England international started last week’s derby against West Ham from the bench, and a similar fate may be required in order to help him find his best form again, which is crucial to Chelsea turning their fortunes around.
His love for the club is obviously seeing him try too hard at times this season, with him being the club’s top scorer and assister in the league last season. Things haven’t happened yet, but he started slow last season and no doubt has the capabilities to perform at the top level again.