James backed to bounce back after subpar Man United season

Daniel James’ performances in the Nations League qualifiers could help him break into the Manchester United starting XI, suggests Ryan Giggs.

Daniel James had a dream debut for Manchester United as he scored moments after coming on in last season’s opening Premier League match against Chelsea.

Netting two more goals in his next three games, he continued his fine run of form and was named United’s player of the month for August.

However, the former Swansea man, who joined Old Trafford in a transfer worth around €18 million, has been in a downward spiral ever since.

James gradually started to lose his place in Ole Gunnar Solskjaer’s starting XI as Mason Greenwood started his rise to prominence. He managed just one Premier League start when the campaign resumed following after the coronavirus enforced lockdown.

The Welsh winger is currently on national duty, preparing for the Nations League fixtures against Finland and Bulgaria.

Ryan Giggs, the Wales national team head coach and a former Red Devil, acknowledges James’ poor run of form but believes he could benefit from his time out of the United spotlight.

“Sometimes the players that don’t necessarily play all the time for their clubs. It gives them a chance to get some minutes, try and get some form to go back to their clubs, and show them what they can do. Perhaps DJ is in that camp,” said Giggs, as per Goal.

“United start a week later but DJ will turn up fit and raring to go, I’m sure. Knowing Dan, the way that he is a professional and wants to improve, trains well and his attitude I am sure he will be better for it.”