Manchester United secured a comeback win over Crystal Palace on Sunday but it was a difficult afternoon for defender Leny Yoro
Mason Mount of Manchester United in action during the Premier League match against Crystal Palace
Mason Mount spoke to Leny Yoro after Man United's win at Crystal Palace(Image: Photo by Ash Donelon/Manchester United via Getty Images)
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Mason Mount showed his true colours as he comforted Leny Yoro after Manchester United's comeback win over Crystal Palace on Sunday.
Despite his side's triumph, it was a difficult afternoon for the young centre-back as he conceded a first-half penalty for clipping Jean-Philippe Mateta in the box. The striker then converted from the spot, even after having to retake it due to a double kick on the first attempt.
It wasn’t all doom and gloom, however, as Ruben Amorim’s men fought back valiantly in the second half. Joshua Zirkzee levelled the score, and ten minutes later substitute Mount put them ahead for the first time in the game.
United then held on for the all-important victory, ending a three-game run without a win. In light of Monday’s dismal 1-0 loss against ten-man Everton at Old Trafford, it was a crucial step in the right direction.
It has been a challenging season for 20-year-old Yoro so far, and the penalty incident on Sunday only compounded matters. The youngster looked dejected as he was replaced by Noussair Mazraoui early in the second half.
That continued at full-time, and Mount was quick to approach Yoro as they made their way off the pitch. He appeared to whisper something to him as he put an arm around his shoulder.
Leny Yoro of Manchester United in action during the Premier League match against Crystal Palace
Leny Yoro endured a difficult afternoon during Man United's Premier League win over Crystal Palace on Sunday
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It was a clear display of leadership from the United midfielder, offering reassurance and encouragement to a young teammate going through a rough patch.
The penalty incident in the first half was described as "clumsy" by pundits on TNT Sports during the game. Joe Cole shared his views but highlighted that it will serve as a learning curve for Yoro.
"It’s just so clumsy," he said. "He’s got the wrong side of him. You’ve got to sort your feet out, he’s tripped over his own feet.
“It’s really clumsy and he needs to learn that, in the Premier League, you’ll get punished.”
Amorim’s side return to action midweek with the visit of West Ham at Old Trafford. Then it’s a trip to Wolves the following Monday.
The win over Palace places United seventh in the standings on 21 points, just three behind Villa in fourth. Liverpool, Brighton, Sunderland and Palace are also among the clubs currently battling for the Champions League places.