When Dan James is named in the Manchester United starting line-up, often the view is that it is a weakened team.
There’s a case to reconsider this stance. James has now started three of United’s biggest results of the season, a 6-2 win over Leeds, 4-1 at Newcastle, and now 4-0 against Real Sociedad.
He also scored goals in 4-1 wins over Istanbul Basaksehir and the 9-0 win over Southampton.
Is is really a coincidence that he has been involved in these big wins?
James has certainly given United something to consider, contributing a goal and assist in the victory over Real Sociedad.
Speaking after the victory, James told United’s official website: “I want to do the best when I’m on the pitch. I was frustrated myself that I didn’t finish the chance I got from Bruno [Fernandes] before, so I had to take the next one, just keep working at it and, luckily, it went through the keeper’s legs.
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It was encouraging too to see James’ success come from the right side. His success has more frequently come from the left, an position occupied by Marcus Rashford.
James’ performance has put him in contention to start this weekend at Old Trafford against Newcastle.
A statistic from Squawka says James is now averaging a goal every 92.5 minutes since the international break in November, in which he also scored for Wales.
He now has four goals for the season for United, and registered his first assist last night too.
Reaction
James may be beginning to turn around perceptions and win his doubters over.
Here is a look at how fans reacted to the 23-year-old Welshman’s performance…
- Marcus Rashford was England’s best creator, but that is not what Manchester United need him for
- Tyler Fletcher is already seeing the benefits of his World Cup experience in 41-touch Man Utd display
- Forget Tielemans, £117m transfer showed Man Utd sealed the best deal in Premier League in 2025
- Radek Vitek makes clear demand after impressing in Man Utd vs Wrexham, it’s non-negotiable
- JJ Gabriel missed Man Utd vs Wrexham but Carrick didn’t even play two most exciting wonderkids
- Man Utd vs Wrexham showed Carrick can solve his main worry this season by doing what Amorim didn’t
- Kobbie Mainoo’s England injury is one he’s never had before, Thomas Tuchel shares what happened
- Michael Carrick praised Santos and Mount, but three other Man Utd stars should be part of his ‘positives’
- Marcus Rashford makes promise after World Cup that bodes well for Man Utd, JJ Gabriel reacts
- Dan Gore’s electric Man Utd cameo pushes him to the forefront of Michael Carrick’s midfield gauntlet
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