Manchester United have a perfect alternative after controversial £7.5million transfer decision

Despite the outcome of Manchester United's trip to St James' Park on Sunday afternoon, it was an occasion Harry Amass will never forget.

Exactly four weeks after he made his United debut via the bench in the 3-0 win over Leicester City at the King Power Stadium, the 18-year-old was handed his first start against Newcastle United, benefitting from Ruben Amorim's decision to make five changes to his starting XI.

The United boss shuffled his pack because of the importance of Thursday night's Europa League quarter-final second leg against Lyon at Old Trafford. Amass slotted in at left wing-back in place of Patrick Dorgu and did not put a foot wrong. He successfully completed three clearances, had 31 touches of the ball and completed 85 per cent of his passes.

Amass also got forward and saw a second half shot sail over. He has made a name for himself in United's youth ranks because of his technical ability and attacking mindset.

The youngster joined United from Watford in August 2023 and on last summer's pre-season tour of the United States his performances were eye-catching. Playing on the left of a back-four under Erik ten Hag, Amass regularly got forward and showing a willingness to beat his man and deliver a cross.

Former Watford youth coach and current Cardiff City manager Omer Riza told the Manchester Evening News last year: "He has got a very attacking mentality; I think that is the thing that stood out for him as a full-back. He's quick, he's powerful, he can get forward, he can deliver and he can score.

"I think it is the flip side that's going to be the thing for Harry and how well he defends. At the end of the day, it is about your primary job first, and he has definitely got the tools when it comes to attacking,