Brad Friedel has defended England and Chelsea star Mason Mount amid ‘unfair’ criticism of the midfielder following England’s goalless draw against USA.

Mount played the whole game against USA but many England fans felt the Chelsea midfielder should have been taken off for Manchester City star Phil Foden.

Gary Neville was among the pundits critical of England boss Gareth Southgate over the decision to play Mount for 90 minutes while Paul Parker has urged the England boss to snub Mount going forward.

“I think criticism of Mount after one match is unfair,” former USA goalkeeper Friedel told Online Casino.

“Everyone can have a bad performance and he’s been made a scapegoat a bit which isn’t right.

“Going individually into one man’s display isn’t right. Looking into [USA duo] Tyler Adams and Yunus Musah would be a better idea as they were fantastic and they deserve more praise.

“If Mount continues to have underwhelming performances then criticism is warranted but you can’t pick him out individually for one poor game.

“Mount came up against players who are really physical.”