Harry Amass is a player who is on the cusp of a first team opportunity for Manchester United, with a little more work to do.
Manchester United need a left-back amid injuries to Luke Shaw and Tyrell Malacia. Teenager Harry Amass is in the mix, training again with the first team this week.
There are high hopes for Amass, who featured in every pre-season game and started three on the pre-season tour.
But he did not make the squad for the Community Shield or the opening Premier League game, showing there is more work for him to do win Erik ten Hag over.
Last night’s under-21 game against Barnsley was a good test, with Amass selected among the starters.
Harry Amass shows character
Manchester United were the better team at Oakwell throughout the 90 minutes, with the under-21 side enjoying 61 per cent possession and doubling Barnsley’s shot count.
Yet at half-time, United were 2-0 down, after some questionable defending. Both goals were the result of United losing possession in their own half.
Despite his team trailing, Amass did not let his head drop, and played a part in United getting back into the game. The second goal came down the right side and he could do little about it.
As the second half went on, United had fresh impetus through substitutes James Nolan, who provided two assists, and Jack Fletcher, who scored twice, while Ethan Ennis scored another.
Fletcher’s long range equaliser was the most impressive and Amass was partly responsible.
The United left-back won a header and then a second ball inside the Barnsley half, to knock the ball into Fletcher’s path. The attacking midfielder then dispatched a stunning half-volley over the goalkeeper and into the net from 25 yards out.
Assists for long range goals are often not worth remarking on, but Amass’ contribution was impressive. This wasn’t just a case of laying on a five-yard pass unchallenged. Instead he won a contested ball and kept possession for his team, creating the opportunity.
Harry Amass’ impressive numbers
Manager Travis Binnion will be pleased with the character shown by his players, especially Amass amid the spotlight on him.
The 17-year-old prospect ended the game with some very impressive statistics…
- 108 Touches
- 4 Key Passes
- 7 Tackles
- 1 Interception
- 11 Duels Won
- 51 of 62 Passes Complete
This was a career enhancing night for Amass, who gained more experience in a competitive environment a step up from normal academy level.
As he pushes for the first team, manager Erik ten Hag will have enjoyed watching everything Amass had to offer, with his determination to help the team push on and get back into the game, right to the very end.
It’s hard to find a creative, exciting left-back, and United have exactly that with Amass. At just 17, time is on his side, and Ten Hag is on record saying he can follow Kobbie Mainoo.
This performance underlined his talent, with Amass coming out on the winning team and playing a key role in the end.
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