Erik ten Hag already has the perfect Manchester United role for Amad next season

Whatever the outcome of Sunderland's play-off campaign, those of a Black Cats persuasion will look back on the 2022/23 campaign with great fondness.

Not only have they massively exceeded expectations, achieving a top-six finish in the Championship after four successive seasons in League One, but they have also been treated to watching one of the most exciting prospects in the country week-in, week-out. Few would have anticipated that Amad would become so adored on Wearside and Sunderland's supporters' reaction towards him is bound to be an emotional one if their season ends at Kenilworth Road on Tuesday night, although they travel with a first leg lead after a 2-1 weekend win.

The Manchester United youngster has been nothing short of sensational this season, playing a key role in Sunderland's unexpected attempt to end their Premier League exile. He has chipped in with 14 goals in 41 appearances, as well as four assists, meaning he has cemented his place in the hearts of Sunderland supporters forever.

READ MORE: United fans hail Amad after stunning Sunderland goal vs Luton

After an underwhelming loan spell at Scottish side Rangers during the second half of last season, it was clear that Amad needed another loan spell, this time at a club where he could spend the duration of a full season, playing regularly and in a demanding, intensive environment. The Championship was a tailor-made fit.

He has stood head and shoulders above almost every other player in the division this season, certainly in terms of technical ability. After all, despite the ever-improving standard of the second tier, how many £37million players rock up in the Championship? Not many.

That aforementioned price tag was, of course, what United paid for him