A former Manchester United coach who worked under Erik ten Hag has revealed why Amad Diallo was often overlooked.
Since Ruben Amorim took over from Dutchman Ten Hag in November, Amad has been one of the Red Devils' best players.
In nine matches, the 22-year-old has started six of them and has recorded eight goal contributions.
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During the Manchester derby, Amad was the star of the show as he won the penalty which Bruno Fernandes converted before scoring the winner himself to seal a 2-1 victory.
His fine recent form has made fans wonder just why Ten Hag never used the Ivorian more.
After winning August's Player of the Month award at United, Amad only managed to play the full 90 once before Ten Hag was dismissed.
Speaking recently on the Podcast and Chill Network, former United coach, Benni McCarthy, who worked alongside Ten Hag, has explained Amad's omission.
He said: "I think tactically when we set up, the manager felt that Antony was the better player for the job that he wanted, because obviously knew Antony from Ajax.
"So he invested in him, and the club supported him, so of course he has to support the player that he bought, your investment."
McCarthy continued: "So I think that’s why he persisted in playing Antony because he knew the capabilities when Antony is at his best, he knows what Antony can do.
"Then you had [Alejandro] Garnacho there, who was also really playing well, scoring goals. And [Marcus] Rashford, on any given day, he could also demolish anyone.
"Then you’ve spend £70 million on bringing in Højlund, so he has to play and someone’s got to [be left out] and unfortunately for Amad Diallo, tactically the manager goes with the player he thinks is probably more capable for those type of games, tactically, defensively and offensively."
So far in the 24/25 season, Amad has managed five goals and eight assists in 25 matches across all competitions.
Topics: Amad Diallo, Manchester United, Erik Ten Hag, Football, Ruben Amorim
Marcus Chan