Amad Diallo’s emphatic message to Man United duo after justifying Ruben Amorim’s most controversial decision

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Amad Diallo was the star of the show during Manchester United’s fairytale comeback.

Manchester United are simply never down and out. Just as it looked as though Ruben Amorim was headed for his first Manchester derby defeat, Amad Diallo stepped up to the plate.

The Red Devils were a goal down to Josko Gvardiol’s header entering the 88th minute, but a calm penalty from Bruno Fernandes drew United level before Amad dramatically stole the three points with a neat finish in the 90th minute to make it 2-1.

Amad was hailed by Gary Neville as a “menace” for his display, while there was absolutely zero doubt that the 22-year-old would be named Man of the Match.

Despite the intense rotation policy in recent weeks, Amad kept his spot in the starting XI against City with Amorim making some bold selection decisions.

Ruben Amorim left Marcus Rashford and Alejandro Garnacho out

Heading into Sunday’s derby clash, Alejandro Garnacho led United’s top scorer list with eight goals, while Marcus Rashford sits joint-second on seven.

However, Amorim raised eyebrows when he announced his lineup and Rashford and Garnacho were left out of the squad.

Instead, he started with Amad and Mason Mount either side of Hojlund. Unfortunately, Mount had to be withdrawn after 12 minutes.

When explaining his controversial decision, Amorim said: “We try to evaluate everything: training, performance, game performance, engagement with the team-mates, pushing the team-mates up”.

“Everything is on the line when we analyse, try to choose the players. So that is my selection. Simple”.

Rashford and Garnacho must learn from Amad’s attitude

Rashford’s body language has been criticised this season after he has appeared dejected on the pitch and Garnacho has also been in and out of Amorim’s plans.

While not directly questioning their attitude, Amorim hinted that his selection choice was made due to his assessment of the duo’s actions off the pitch.

Amorim was not afraid to make a big call, and his faith was repaid by Amad – whose attitude has been flawless at United. Amad’s performance sent an emphatic message to Garnacho and Rashford that he is here to stay as the club’s first-choice No.10.

READ MORE: Five things learned as Manchester United beat Manchester City 2-1

After the Plzen win, Amorim praised Amad and Hojlund for their heated exchange on the pitch, and it was that kind of passion that was needed for Sunday’s derby.

Amad pressed relentlessly and was easily United’s biggest threat against City. If Rashford and Garnacho plan on regaining their spot in the squad, they must take a leaf out of Amad’s book.