Erik ten Hag has a simple Amad transfer decision to make at Manchester United this summer

This summer will mark a crucial crossroads for several Manchester United players - few more so than Amad.

The 20-year-old will return to Carrington for pre-season with an outstanding season of Championship football under his belt, having starred on loan at Sunderland. Surrounded by young talent and with the experienced Tony Mowbray in charge, he racked up an impressive 14 goals.

Arguably more important than the goals were the 39 appearances in which they came from - an indication of Mowbray's trust in the youngster to deliver week in, week out. The Black Cats boss often spoke of him almost playing too often, such was his importance in the push for play-offs where they eventually lost out to Luton Town in the semi-finals.

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ALSO READ: Sunderland issue transfer update on Amad

Figures at United told the Manchester Evening News back in November that Amad merely needed 'a run of 10 games' to show his qualities, and Erik ten Hag is said to be pleased with the Ivorian's development. Pre-season will offer a fresh chance for player and manager to come together and discuss next steps.

Amad admitted earlier this season that his 'dream' is to play for the Reds, and his performances at the Stadium of Light have encouraged supporters enough to clamour for his place in the first team. But with the utmost respect to Sunderland, the gap between themselves and United is a large one.

Ten Hag is fairly well-stocked in wide areas, even amid plans to offload Anthony Elanga and Facundo Pellistri - the latter hoped to be a Premier League loan.

Marcus Rashford enjoyed his most prolific campaign last season