Mason Greenwood's 'very present' father praised for positive impact he's having on his Marseille career as Roberto De Zerbi challenges ex-Man Utd striker to 'reach another level'

The Italian coach has encouraged the English forward to continue to perform and improve even more as a footballer. His start to life in south France had been lauded and he has scored 14 goals in 23 matches this season, but Greenwood's form and influence in games has dipped in recent weeks. De Zerbi insists this is merely a blip in form and has backed the attacker to turn his form around, in part thanks to the influence of his father.

As per Get French Football News, De Zerbi said: "He’s doing a good job, he shouldn’t rest on his laurels but should be striving for more.

“He has both technical and moral qualities, he’s a smart lad. I speak to him every other day so we can always try and get the best out of him. He has the luck of having a very present father. He knows it. I talk with his dad every other day and we try to really help him progress and reach another level.”

Greenwood's form has caught the eye of a number of clubs across Europe and, despite only being his debut season with the club, is already being linked with a move away from Marseille. Liverpool have emerged as shock candidates for his signature as they consider strengthening their attacking options, although whether they choose to make an offer for a Manchester United exile remains to be seen. The likes of Juventus, Barcelona and Atletico Madrid have tracked his availability previously.

Marseille have reportedly slapped a mammoth €75 million (£62m) price tag on the forward in a bid to ward off any potential suitors. The French club play on Sunday against Nantes and will look to strengthen their position in the Champions League qualification spots.