Sunderland boss Tony Mowbray likens Man United loanee Amad Diallo to Liverpool star

Amad Diallo is shining on loan at Sunderland this season and manager Tony Mowbray has likened the Manchester United winger to Liverpool’s Harvey Elliott.

After signing for The Reds in the summer of 2020, Amad struggled to find first-team opportunities at Old Trafford before going on a disappointing loan spell to Scotland with Rangers.

This term, however, the Ivorian wide player has been one of the standout players in the Championship, helping Mowbray’s side challenge at the top end of the table.

“He is a special footballer, I think,” Mowbray proclaimed when asked about the loanee. “For us, he is an amazing player. We’re delighted he’s with us. Hopefully, he can continue for the rest of the season and do exceptionally well.”

Erik ten Hag has admitted that it would not be ideal to recall Amad, despite United’s lack of offensive depth, as he’s developing well at the northern club.

Amad has made 19 league appearances so far this season, which is more than his prior two campaigns together.

Mowbray has been a great manager to work under for Amad. He’s helped develop the 20-year-old develop different aspects of his game.

The 59-year-old also worked with Harvey Elliott at Blackburn. The Englishman is now a regular starter at Liverpool under Jurgen Klopp. Mowbray believes that the ability of the two attacking players is very similar.

“Hopefully, he can get an opportunity at United at some stage,” added Mowbray. “I liken him very much talent-wise to Harvey Elliot, the ball stuck to his feet, you know he’ll pick the right pass all the time, he knows when to keep it and when to release it.

“His feet are so fast, and Harvey is doing okay at Liverpool, so hopefully Amad will break through that glass ceiling at United. But it’s never easy for young players.”