KEY POINTS

  • Manchester United winger Daniel James has scored at least one goal in his last two starts this season
  • Red Devils boss Ole Gunnar Solskjaer has always believed in James’ “X-Factor”
  • Solskjaer may have just made the 23-year-old a regular starter

Manchester United boss Ole Gunnar Solskjaer was right about one of his winger’s potential.

Daniel James has found his rhythm this season, having been a key figure in Manchester United’s last two wins.

The 23-year-old has only been featured five times prior to scoring his first goal of the current campaign against Real Sociedad on Thursday.

He continued his goalscoring form in Manchester United’s latest victory over Newcastle when he hit the back of the net at the 57th minute to give the Red Devils the lead.

Pleased by James’ performance, Solskjaer, who always believed in the youngster’s “X-Factor,” hinted about what’s bound to happen in the next games.

Based on the Norwegian’s comments after beating Newcastle, it appears that James is likely to be a starter in the next couple of matches or maybe even a regular for the rest of the season.

“We’ve targeted a few games for his X-factor,” Solskjaer told The Guardian of James. “We felt we needed his energy tonight, the width he gives. I’m delighted for him to get a goal, and he’s ready to go again.”

In another interview, Solskjaer raved about James’ work ethic. Though the back-up winger has only made two starts so far, the manager revealed that he has always regarded James as a reliable player.

“[James] he never disappeared,” the 47-year-old explained. “He has been working hard behind the scenes and always been available. He is always a player you can use in different areas with his energy and pace.”

“We work with him, we try to help everyone but of course Dan came from the Championship, he hit a few goals in the first games and it is bound to take some energy from you,” he continued. “He has knuckled down and really worked to get back to full fitness but maybe more so confidence, to believe in himself. ”

Manchester United midfielder Daniel James celebrates scoring the winning penalty against Rochdale
Manchester United midfielder Daniel James celebrates scoring the winning penalty against Rochdale AFP / Paul ELLIS

James is expected to be included in Manchester United’s starting XI when the club travels to Stamford Bridge to face Chelsea next week.

Last season, James was one of the most active players in Solskjaer’s team, having made 26 starts in 33 English Premier League matches with a total of three goals and six assists.

Should he manage to maintain his exceptional form in the current campaign, James is likely to exceed his numbers from the previous season.

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