Former centre-back Rio Ferdinand has admitted he has been surprised by just how big an impact Amad has had at Manchester United this season.

The Ivorian has been United's best player this season, scoring nine goals and registering seven assists in 32 appearances across all competitions.

After struggling to nail down a regular place in former manager Erik ten Hag's plans, Amad has excelled under head coach Ruben Amorim; he has been directly involved in 11 goals in 16 games under the Portuguese chief. He has also signed a new contract since the former Sporting Lisbon boss was appointed back in November.

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Now a regular starter for United, Ferdinand has been very impressed by just how effective he has been this term.

Asked directly if he thought Amad would be as good as he has been this season, Ferdinand told TNT Sports: "If I'm totally honest, no.

"He went out on loan, went to Sunderland, did very, very well. We speak to the people there; they loved him. He came back and still wasn't really an integral part or a real piece in the jigsaw."

After an impressive end to last season and an eye-catching pre-season campaign, the 22-year-old was expected to become a staple in Ten Hag's plans. However, he struggled to nail down a regular starting berth, leading Ferdinand to praise his character and desire for becoming such a key player under the new regime.

"What I do like about Amad, he showed a character, a perseverance, a desire, a determination, adding to the skills," Ferdinand continued.

"Don't forget, this kid was dubbed the wonder boy, a wonderkid from Atalanta, and he's showing now what he's made of. And then that spirit and that determination."