Man Utd loanee James Nolan stars on first ever professional start for Inverness Caledonian Thistle, plays key role

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Manchester United’s loanees are beginning to build up their game time at their new clubs, James Nolan included.

There was not a mass exodus of youth players leaving Manchester United on loan on deadline day, more a steady trickle.

One young talent who did leave the Red Devils on loan was promising defender James Nolan, who has captained the club at under-18s level, and played a part in winning three trophies last season.

Nolan signed on loan with Scottish League One side Inverness Caledonian Thistle, who are managed by former Everton striker Duncan Ferguson.

James Nolan plays important role on first start

James Nolan made his debut for Inverness CT before the international break, coming on as a substitute against Queen of the South. He played the final 23 minutes in a 1-0 win.

This past weekend the young right-back was selected as a starter as Inverness CT took on top of the table Alloa Athletic.

Nolan, 18, had a key role in Inverness CT scoring the opening goal of the game.

Taking a free-kick just inside the Alloa half, Nolan launched a dangerous ball into the penalty box. After two attempted headers failed to clear his cross, Billy McKay struck the loose ball into the back of the net.

It won’t quite go down as an assist for Nolan – but no other player had a bigger role in the goal other than McKay. The quality of Nolan’s cross in the penalty area caused the panic leading to his side going 1-0 up.

Inverness CT doubled their lead but Alloa came back into the game to salvage a 2-2 draw.

Nolan played 82 minutes in total and will be pleased with how his first ever professional start went.

Nolan had begun 2024/25 season well

When Manchester United face Barnsley in the Carabao Cup this week, James Nolan will be watching with interest.

Nolan starred in Manchester United’s under-21 side’s EFL Trophy match with Barnsley last month, a 3-2 victory.

The teenager provided two assists in Manchester United’s win, setting up a goal for Ethan Ennis and the winner for Jack Fletcher.

In the following games Nolan also provided an assist as the under-21s won 4-1 over Stoke City.

The academy prospect’s creative streak is already on show during his loan spell. His progress is worth keeping an eye on.