Why Manchester United loanee Amad Diallo has been nominated for EFL award at Sunderland

The Manchester United loanee scored twice during the Black Cats’ three matches last month, helping the side claim important wins at Huddersfield and Birmingham before the World Cup break

Middlesbrough striker Chuba Akpom, Coventry forward Viktor Gyokeres and West Brom defender Kyle Bartley have also been nominated for the award, with the winner set to be announced on Friday, December 9.

The judging panel for the EFL awards includes former Sunderland striker Don Goodman, EFL Chief Executive Trevor Birch and Sky Bet EFL trader Ivor Davies.

Following Amad’s nomination the EFL’s statement read: “Involved in every one of Sunderland’s four goals, scoring two, the 20-year-old Manchester United loanee is exhibiting a prodigious work ethic. A wriggling assist at Birmingham was followed by a sublime run and curler into the far corner."

Amad’s form has seen Patrick Roberts drop to the bench for Sunderland’s last two matches.

"He's only playing on a regular basis because of his talent," said Sunderland boss Tony Mowbray when asked about Amad’s recent form.

"I have to sit Patrick Roberts down in my office, who, in my opinion, is probably the most talented footballer in this league, yet he's not playing.

"'Why am I not playing if you think I'm that talented?' 'Well, because this kid assists and scores goals Pat, and with total respect, you scored two amazing goals away at Reading this season and you've had some assists, but Amad's on fire at the moment and he plays in the same position as you'.

"My job is to try to find a way of putting them both in the team, yet you have to pick and choose the games where you feel you can be dominant with the ball and put them both in the team at the same time."

The Championship’s Manager of the Month award will also be announced on Friday.

Middlesbrough boss Michael Carrick, new West Brom manager Carlos Corberan, Paul Heckingbottom of Sheffield United and Coventry’s Mark Robins are among the nominations.

Sunderland are preparing to face West Brom on Monday, December 12 at the Stadium of Light.