Sunderland manager Tony Mowbray says he managed to secure Mason Burstow’s signature by claiming that the striker has the potential to follow in the footsteps of Chelsea legend Didier Drogba.
The 20-year-old joined the Black Cats on loan at the start of the month, but Mowbray said the Championship side had to fight off plenty of other teams to get their man:
“I spoke to him. I know he had some amazing offers. After our chat, he wanted to come here. I tried to sell this football club and the biggest selling point is the supporters I would suggest. What a chance to come and play in an environment that is so Premier League-like. 40,000 people in the stadium roaring the team on.”
“Get yourself ready to go and play at Stamford Bridge for Chelsea and be the number nine that bangs in all the goals and put your name next to Drogba and all the great players that have played for Chelsea. I think he wanted to do it. I hope he can come and play with the enthusiasm that he seems to have. He looks an amazing athlete and great kid.”
The striker needs to be playing regularly
Burstow had been given some chances by Blues boss Mauricio Pochettino in the opening weeks of the season, getting cameos against West Ham and Luton Town, and getting his first start versus AFC Wimbledon in the Carabao Cup.
However, with Nicolas Jackson being first-choice no.9, and Armando Broja now having returned from injury, Burstow’s game time would have been limited. Starting regularly for Sunderland is clearly better for his development.
Burstow is in good hands
Mowbray has the knack of getting the most out of young players. Whilst at Blackburn Rovers, he helped Harvey Elliott take his first steps into senior football after the teenager joined on loan from Liverpool.
Manchester United’s Amad Diallo also thrived during his spell with the Black Cats under Mowbray last season. The Ivorian scored 14 goals and provided 4 assists in 42 appearances.
