Crystal Palace manager said he is a “big admirer” of Chelsea talent Mason Mount and sang praises of the midfielder ahead of the Blues’ visit to Selhurst Park on Saturday.
The 22-year-old got off the mark in the Champions League with a superb strike against Porto on Wednesday and is now Chelsea’s leading goalscorer under Thomas Tuchel with five goals.
Having received some criticism during Frank Lampard’s reign, Mount has now won over more and more Blues fans with his performance.
But not only at Chelsea, as Crystal Palace boss Hodgson himself seems to be impressed by Mount’s meteoric rise at both club and international level.
“Absolutely fantastic — I can’t say anything about him that’s not already been said,” Hodgson said in his pre-match press conference on Friday (via MrBeanyman YouTube channel).
“I’m a big admirer, like everybody else.
“The kid is exceptionally good in his position and I think he’s exceptionally knowledgable and wise as a player for someone so young.
“Luckily, he’s been given a chance to show what he can do, first at Derby County and the two seasons at Chelsea — and he’s developed more and more every game.
“He’s someone that not only Chelsea can rely upon, but also England I hope.
“It’s nice for both Chelsea and England to have such a good player at his disposal.”
Chronicle view
Aside from his obvious technical abilities, what makes Mount very reliable is his natural fitness.
The versatile midfielder has already played 40 games in all competitions for Chelsea this season, 50 including international games with England.
He is expected to make his 41st appearance for Chelsea this season at the weekend, and hopefully can maintain his fine goalscoring form under the new manager.
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