Ruben Amorim has taken aim at Manchester United youngsters Chido Obi and Harry Amass, saying the duo are now ‘struggling’ at a lower level despite featuring under him last season.
The Portuguese manager was frank in his assessment of the two youngsters ahead of United’s home clash with Bournemouth when he was questioned over Kobbie Mainoo’s situation at the club.
Amorim has come under fire from former United players in recent days over his handling of the midfielder, who could be on the move in the January transfer window.
The United boss insisted Mainoo, who has yet to make a Premier League start this season, has not taken advantage of the opportunities ‘everyone has’.
Amorim Takes Aim at Obi and Amass
harry amass sheffield wednesday
Amorim, as quoted by BBC journalist Simon Stone, issued a frank assessment of United’s academy stars when he was asked if he rates Mainoo ahead of Monday’s clash with Bournemouth:
“Of course. But in the end it's going to be the training, the games. Of course he's not playing so many games, but Kobbie has had opportunities, especially last year. Everyone has.
“Amass is now struggling in Championship. Chido is not always a starter in under 21. All these guys played when a lot of people were saying sack the manager.
“So you can see I’m not worried. I just want to win and if he's the right guy, I will put him in.”
Amass, who featured seven times under Amorim last season, was named Sheffield Wednesday’s Player of the Month for November after scoring his first goal for the struggling Championship side.
The Owls sit bottom of the table after winning just once in 19 league games this season, with Amass making 15 appearances and as many starts.
Obi, who made eight appearances for United last season, has been in-and-out of the Under-21s side this term, scoring five goals and providing two assists in 13 appearances.
Mainoo Could Leave in January
Kobbie Mainoo
As GIVEMESPORT reported previously, Man United could end up parting ways with Mainoo in January amid long-standing interest from Serie A champions Napoli.
The Italian side, who welcomed Rasmus Hojlund and Scott McTominay in the past two summers, are looking to step up their interest in Mainoo ahead of the market reopening next month, with Antonio Conte said to be a big fan of the midfielder.
Mainoo has yet to start a Premier League game for United this season, with all his 10 appearances coming off the bench.