Why Amad is not starting for Manchester United

Erik ten Hag admits Amad has deserved more opportunities than he has had so far this season after he impressed from the bench in Manchester United's victory over Coventry City.

The Ivorian winger featured from the bench in the FA Cup semi-final victory when he replaced Marcus Rashford in the wake of Haji Wright's equalising goal from the penalty spot.

It was just the sixth appearance Amad has made all season, with the 21-year-old yet to start a game across any competition. A big reason behind his limited game time was down to the fact he missed the first-half of the season through a knee injury, but since returning he has largely been a peripheral figure.

Amad has played just 172 minutes so far this season and Ten Hag says a part of that is also due to the fact he faces competition from Antony and Omari Forson.

“Amad deserves it, but don’t forget he had a long period in the season injured, so we rebuilt him and now he has had some opportunities and a real contribution. He played in a position that is not his best position," he told reporters ahead of the clash with Sheffield United.

"He started as a striker and then he had to play in the midfield, so he did well. We have a number of players in that area, there is big competition. He already deserved more game minutes, I would say, but I have to choose there. We have Garnacho, Antony, and we have Omari Forson. We have a number of players in that position and we have to make choices there. But I am very happy with his performances and his progress, I see his qualities and his assets can really contribute to our game.”