Former Manchester United coach Benni McCarthy has explained why Erik ten Hag thought Antony was a “better player” and option than Amad Diallo.

Ivorian youngster Amad is one of few players to have earned praise for the Red Devils in what is shaping up to be another infuriatingly inconsistent campaign. Amad, at 22 years of age, has impressed many with his work rate and direct running – with five goals and seven assists being recorded.

New United boss Ruben Amorim is prepared to give Amad opportunities to unlock his full potential, but that was not always the case under the Portuguese’s predecessor Ten Hag – with the Dutch tactician preferring to keep faith with big-money signings even when said players were struggling for form.

Ex-South Africa international McCarthy, who worked as a forwards coach at Old Trafford, has told the Podcast and Chill Network of why some questionable selection calls were made: “Tactically, when we set up, the manager [Ten Hag] felt that Antony was the best, better player for the job that he wanted because he knew Antony from Ajax. He was his player, so he invested in him, and the club supported him. So, of course, he had to support the player that he bought, I think that’s why he persisted in playing Antony. It’s because he knew the capabilities when Antony was at his best.

“And then you had [Alejandro] Garnacho who was also playing well, scoring goals. [Marcus] Rashford, on any given day, could demolish anyone. And then you’ve got [Rasmus] Hojlund, you spend £70m on bringing him in, so he has to play. So someone’s got to [miss out], and unfortunately for Amad, the manager goes with the player he thinks is probably more capable for those type of games tactically, defensively and attacking.”

Amorim has talked up what Amad can bring to his plans, as United now favour three at the back, with useful versatility meaning that he can operate as a wide forward or wing-back. The Red Devils’ current boss has said: “He can play different positions, he is very humble. We have to be very careful with Amad because sometimes in our club we put young players in a special place. Let’s stay calm with Amad.”

Amad scored a dramatic winner for United in their derby date with arch-rivals Manchester City on December 15, but has seen the Red Devils suffer successive defeats since then and will be hoping that they can get back on track when taking in a trip to Wolves on Boxing Day.