Sunderland manager Tony Mowbray admits that he can no longer overlook the “dynamic and explosive” Amad when naming his starting XI on any given matchday.
Amad, 20, departed Manchester United on loan during the summer transfer window and has made 10 appearances for Sunderland in the Championship this season. After being made to wait for his chance, the Ivorian has now started back-to-back matches against Burnley and Luton Town.
It was his performance against Luton that convinced Mowbray that Amad deserves to be part of his XI on a regular basis and he is expected to start at Huddersfield Town on Wednesday night.
Mowbray said: “I think he got wrapped up in the game on Saturday (against Luton) emotionally and that was good to see. With his physical data, he was top in every aspect from distance covered to number of high-speed sprints, he was amazingly athletic as well as showing his talent.
“That bodes well for us and also accelerates him in my mind in terms of him being a starting player for us, beyond a young lad who I can bring off the bench.”
Mowbray added: “I’m hoping that over time that’s what happens with the other young lads, as well. At the moment they’re still feeling their way in, but with Amad – and maybe it’s because he’s had more game time – he’s in front and he looks to me like a first-team starter. They bring different qualities. Amad is dynamic and explosive.”
Amad moved to United from Italian side Atalanta in January 2021 having agreed to a move several months prior and has played nine senior games for the club.
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