‘My dream’ - Amad sends Erik ten Hag message and names Manchester United duo who helped him settle in

Amad says his “ambition” for next season is to get his chance at Manchester United next season - but also left the door open for a return to loan club Sunderland.

The striker bent in a wonderful effort from a free-kick in the Black Cats’ 2-1 Championship play-off semi-final first-leg win against Luton Town on Saturday. He had helped the club reach the top six with a goal in the final-day win over Preston, too.

The Ivorian now has 14 goals for the season having also bagged four assists. Boss Tony Mowbray has frequently waxed lyrical about Amad this season and urged Erik ten Hag against recalling him in January amid his good form.

ALSO READ: Erik ten Hag sets Alejandro Garnacho new challenge

The forward is a fan-favourite at the Stadium Of Light and has refrained from ruling out a return, although has made it clear that his primary goal is to get his shot back in the first-team at United.

Ahead of Sunderland’s clash with Luton, he told Sky Sports: “My dream was to play for United. When I signed I was happy. Everyone in my family was happy. I hope maybe next season I get my chance.

“I have a lot of thoughts in my head but my ambition now is to come back to Manchester United and maybe to get my chance.”

When asked about his popularity among Sunderland supporters, he replied: “I know they love me - that is good for me. Maybe, I don’t know, maybe next season I will come back here.”

Amad has already played nine senior games for United and scored his maiden goal against AC Milan in the Europa League in March 2021, two months after signing from Atalanta. The 20-year-old relived his feelings of that night, describing his emotions.

He added: “My dream was to play for United, so when I scored against Milan I was happy. When you