Daniel James admits he did not expect to have such a big role at Man Utd

Daniel James has admitted he never expected to be a regular fixture at Manchester United this season after joining in the summer.

The 22-year-old Welsh forward became Ole Gunnar Solskjaer’s first signing when the Red Devils parted with a reported £15m to sign him from Championship outfit Swansea City.

James riding the crest of a wave: Five key things to know…

• James became Solskjaer’s first signing of the 2019 summer transfer window.
• He joined from Swansea City for a reported £15m.
• The 22-year-old has played in all of Man United’s opening 12 league games.
• James has to date scored three goals and created a further two.
• The Welsh international has admitted he never expected to play this regularly.

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Since arriving he’s been a regular mainstay having featured across Man United’s opening 12 league outings, registering three goals and creating a further two for his teammates.

His consistent involvement has come somewhat of a surprise to many observers who felt James’ acquisition would see him become a fringe player or one to nurture for the future.

However, Solskjaer has put his trust in the forward, who has started all but one of the Red Devils’ league fixtures – and that was on the opening weekend against Chelsea during which he came off the bench to score.

James, who celebrated his birthday with a start in Man United’s 3-1 win over Brighton on Sunday, has reflected on his Old Trafford career so far and can scarcely believe how vitally important he has become to the club’s cause.

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“Obviously when I came here I didn’t know what to expect,” he told MUTV. “It was just about getting my head down and working hard. The gaffer obviously had that trust in me.

“I didn’t think I’d play this many games but I’ve enjoyed every minute of it.”

Praise for Williams

James wasn’t the only youngster playing for Man United in their 3-1 win over Brighton & Hove Albion. With an average age of 23 years 350 days, Man United fielded their youngest starting XI in the Premier League this season.

The youngest of the Red Devils was left-back Brandon Williams who made his first league start, prompting James to praise his performance at left-back.

“All the boys who have come up this year have done unbelievable,” he added.

“Brandon was unbelievable today. He’s great in training every day. Unbelievable attitude. Massive credit to him to come and start at Old Trafford in the Premier League.”