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Erik ten Hag has not been afraid to throw academy gems into the deep end ever since becoming the Manchester United manager two seasons ago.
Alejandro Garnacho and Kobbie Mainoo were the standout talents to emerge from the academy under the Dutchman’s watch over the last couple of campaigns and more are expected to break through this term.
One of them is Harry Amass, who has played at left-back in all four pre-season games thus far, impressing in all of them with the manager praising his impact and while saying he expects more from the 17-year-old.
“He is not that far along now [as Mainoo was] at this moment, but if we train him well, if we coach him well, then in three months it’s possible that he can be at that point,” Ten Hag was quoted as saying after the game against Real Betis.
Amass impresses
The England U17 international ability with the ball, his powerful forward runs and ability to get stuck in despite his small frame have impressed fans worldwide.
United’s issues at left-back were there for all to see last term with Luke Shaw missing a large chunk of the season while Tyrell Malacia missed the whole campaign.
The England international is yet to rejoin training following his Euro 2024 exertions while Malacia will require two more months to regain fitness which means there is a spot up for grabs.
Amass was asked about what he felt about his chances at breaking through to the first team in the new season and he revealed that he is ready to grab his chances whenever they are offered.
“That’s the game, anything can happen at any time. Injuries come about and you’ve just got to take your chance when it comes. No conversations (with Ten Hag) have been had yet, but this pre-season is a chance to prove that if I am picked I can do it.
“We’ll see what happens when Luke and Tyrell come back. My intention is to play first-team football at this club. If the opportunity comes, I’ve got to take it with both hands, it could change my career. I am just waiting for that moment, I am ready,” the young ace said (via The Athletic).
His powerful forward runs are reminiscent of Shaw’s ability to bomb forward with the ball but the academy star was clear that he felt he still needs to improve off-the-ball.
Amass has earned comparisons with Shaw
“He is one of the best left-backs in the Premier League, if not the best for a long time. I am not gonna complain about the comparison.
“On the ball I am comfortable, I like to dribble a lot, I like to take on players, I like to excite the fans, play exciting football. On the ball, in build-up, ain’t a problem. Off the ball, you’ve got work hard, make sure you’re at it 100 per cent.”
The full-back seemed confident in his answers but aware of the need to improve, something that is a must for all promising youngsters.
Ten Hag was forced to play defensive midfielder Sofyan Amrabat and centre-back Victor Lindelof at left-back last season due to a lack of options and hopefully, Amass can impress the manager enough to make his debut this term.
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