Manchester United winger Amad was supporting Sunderland in person for their Championship play-off semi-final vs Coventry City
Manchester United winger Amad
Manchester United winger Amad(Image: Getty Images)
Manchester United winger Amad returned to his former loan side Sunderland to cheer them on for a crucial Championship play-off second-leg clash with Coventry City.
Amad, 22, signed at Old Trafford in 2020. Having completed the notable achievement of breaking into the senior team of Ole Gunnar Solskjaer, it was decided for his betterment loans to Rangers and then Sunderland were ideal.
It was that season-long spell at the Stadium of Light that the United loanee's career in English football advanced, scoring 14 goals and providing four assists as the Black Cats' top scorer, though he could not inspire them to play-off glory as they crashed out at the semi-final stage to Luton Town that year.
Back in the four-club showpiece, Sunderland have been up against Coventry City managed by Frank Lampard. They won the first away leg 2-1 with a late strike and returned home for the second meeting, where Amad was in attendance showing his support.
Manchester United winger Amad in attendance at Sunderland vs Coventry City championship play-off semi-final
The Ivorian posted to his Instagram story showing his view from the stands behind Regis Le Bris and Lampard's dugouts, including the 'fingers crossed' emoji as he wished for his former side to make the Wembley Stadium final.
He was also picked up by broadcaster's cameras viewing the action, much like Harry Maguire was at his former club Sheffield United 24 hours before.
It was not going how Amad may have hoped as a solitary second-half Coventry goal on the night had sent the tie to extra-time with a 2-2 aggregate scoreline.
However former teammate Dan Ballard rose highest from a 132nd-minute corner and with virtually one of the final touches of the game headed Sunderland to the play-off final. Pandemonium ensued with a pitch invasion from supporters.
Last December speaking to Inside United via Sunderland of his fond memories, the United player said: "Sunderland was my second time on loan, and I have a lot of beautiful things to say about the Club.
"They supported me and were unbelievable with me and my family and tried to help me in everything – on and off the pitch.
"They give me a lot of love and I enjoyed every moment of playing for Sunderland – I was so happy to be part of it.
"I wish everyone at Sunderland the best for now and for the future because they are a beautiful Club."
Amad has since gone on to break through into United's Premier League side under Erik ten Hag and was a key player for Ruben Amorim before injury kept him out for a good portion of the season.
Beforehand he had registered nine goals and nine assists, so his club will have been thankful that he returned ahead of schedule with a goal against Brentford this month.
Amad has been building up his fitness since to be able to play an integral role in next week's Europa League final.