Amad has taken to social media in what could be interpreted as a signal regarding his Manchester United future, following the weekend's Premier League fixture against Crystal Palace. Having featured from the start in every league match under interim boss Michael Carrick thus far, Amad found himself relegated to the substitutes' bench for Sunday's encounter.
Forward Benjamin Sesko took his place in the starting line-up. The Slovenian netted what proved to be the decisive goal for the second consecutive match as United emerged 2-1 victors. Amad has since shared an image of himself celebrating in a United kit on his Snapchat profile, accompanied by text which reads: "What is meant to grow does not stay in the same place forever."
Article continues below ADVERTISEMENT
The message could suggest he is contemplating his future, although not necessarily in the short term. Alternatively, it might relate to personal growth and act as inspiration to reclaim his starting berth.
Nevertheless, the timing of the post, which arrived immediately after his demotion to the bench, may spark concerns about his current mindset within the squad.
Article continues below ADVERTISEMENT
Ensure our latest sport headlines always appear at the top of your Google Search by making us a Preferred Source. Click here to activate or add us as a Preferred Source in your Google search settings.
Article continues below ADVERTISEMENT
Amad has been a consistent starter for United throughout this campaign. Across his 23 outings in all competitions, he has found the net twice whilst contributing three further assists.
His most recent goal contribution came when he scored in the 4-4 draw with Bournemouth in December. That fixture preceded his departure to represent the Ivory Coast at the Africa Cup of Nations, resulting in his absence from five Premier League fixtures.
Carrick's choice to bring on Sesko in place of Amad during the Palace match followed suggestions from pundits, including United icon Gary Neville. "I think now on Sunday Michael Carrick starts him (Sesko)," he said on Sky Sports following United's victory over Everton.
"Just feeling how Michael would look at that, I think it would kill the lad if he didn't start. I think what you'll see on Sunday is Cunha to the left, Mbeumo to the right, Sesko up top and Bruno in behind. I think Amad will just slip out for a game, he has been really good but I think Sesko starts."
Amad will be eager to make his mark, whether from the first whistle or as a substitute, when United resume their campaign on Wednesday evening.
Carrick's squad head to St James' Park to face Newcastle (8.15pm kick-off). A brief respite from fixtures follows due to the FA Cup fifth round before they welcome Aston Villa to Old Trafford in the Premier League on Sunday afternoon, March 15 (2pm).
Manchester United FC news, fixtures, results and transfer gossip plus selected offers and competitions Invalid email
We use your sign-up to provide content in ways you've consented to and to improve our understanding of you. This may include adverts from us and 3rd parties based on our understanding. You can unsubscribe at any time. Read our Privacy Policy
Get More of Our News on Google
Set Daily Express as a 'Preferred Source' to get quicker access to the news you value.
EXPRESS SPORT ON FB! Get all the best sports news and much more on our Facebook page