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AND HE'S OUT
I’m a Man Utd superfan – the club made the right call axing Mason Greenwood… but they face a much bigger problem now
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A MANCHESTER United superfan has claimed that the club made the right call axing Mason Greenwood.
The Prem giants today announced that the striker, 21, would not be returning to Old Trafford following his suspension.
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In a statement released this afternoon, Man Utd confirmed they had finished the probe into Greenwood.
But they did not reveal what the striker's future holds - including whether his £75,000-a-week contract will be terminated or if he will be put on loan or sold.
Now, Man Utd fan and journalist Tom McDermott has spoken out about the unrest surrounding the Prem ace.
He said: "Manchester United have started the process that will see them part ways with Mason Greenwood - and it’s absolutely the right decision. The only decision.
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"We can talk about Greenwood’s immense talent all day. In fact, I have written articles on this very platform praising his excellence.
"But Greenwood the footballer is different to Greenwood the human being and he, as he admits in his own personal statement, has made mistakes."
And he added that the talented youngster's return would have caused a huge amount of backlash and problems the club did not need.
McDermott continued: "If Greenwood had returned, he would have been the story.
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"Criticised from the terraces by some of his own fans, never mind the opposition. It was a huge problem United and manager Erik ten Hag didn’t need.
"I was criticised on social media myself when I said I wouldn’t attend matches if Greenwood was re-integrated’ into the squad."
Greenwood's fate had remained uncertain after he was suspended by Utd in the wake of his charge for attempted rape, assault and coercive control - even after the case was dropped.
The striker last kicked a ball for United 19 months ago in January 2022.
But loyal fan Tom has still been critical of how the club have approached the situation - with more trouble for the club set to come.
He continued: "United’s handling of the situation has been questionable too.
"It appeared that they were prepared to welcome him back in some form but fortunately, morals have risen ahead of football talent and finance.
"I hope United release him with another statement in the coming months. No doubt he will receive some kind of settlement, but I’d hate for United to receive any money for him via sale or loan fee.
"The period of rehabilitation will go on for Greenwood and it remains to be see where he goes from here.
"For United, they have been taught some lessons as well. The statement last week probably accelerated the process but it’s been a messily dealt process from start to finish.
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"It’s the right conclusion. But it’s a sad end for United and Greenwood."
Tom regularly posts about all news regarding Utd with his handle @mrtommcdermott.
The statements from the club and Mason in full
Manchester United said: "Manchester United has concluded its internal investigation into the allegations made against Mason Greenwood. Our process commenced in February 2023, following all charges against Mason being dropped.
"Throughout, we have taken into account the wishes, rights and perspective of the alleged victim along with the club’s standards and values, and sought to collate as much information and context as possible.
"This has required us to proceed with sensitivity and care to obtain evidence not in the public domain, including from those with direct knowledge of the case.
"Based on the evidence available to us, we have concluded that the material alleged did not provide a full picture and that Mason did not commit the offences in respect of which he was originally charged.
"That said, as Mason publicly acknowledges today, he has made mistakes which he is taking responsibility for. All those involved, including Mason, recognise the difficulties with him recommencing his career at Manchester United. It has therefore been mutually agreed that it would be most appropriate for him to do so away from Old Trafford, and we will now work with Mason to achieve that outcome."
Mason Greenwood added: "I want to start by saying I understand that people will judge me because of what they have seen and heard on social media, and I know people will think the worst. I was brought up to know that violence or abuse is wrong, I did not do the things I was accused of, and in February I was cleared of all charges.
"However, I fully accept I made mistakes, and I take my share of responsibility for the situations which led to the social media post. I am learning to understand my responsibilities to set a good example as a professional footballer, and I’m focused on the big responsibility of being a father, as well as a good partner.
"Today’s decision has been part of a collaborative process between Manchester United, my family and me. The best decision for us all, is for me to continue my football career away from Old Trafford, where my presence will not be a distraction for the club.
"I thank the club for their support since I joined aged seven. There will always be a part of me which is United. I am enormously grateful to my family and all my loved ones for their support, and it is now for me to repay the trust those around me have shown.
"I intend to be a better footballer, but most importantly a good father, a better person, and to use my talents in a positive way on and off the pitch."
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