Daniel James scores the winning penalty against AC Milan

Solskjaer: James has been a joy to work with

Sunday 04 August 2019 07:00

Manchester United manager Ole Gunnar Solskjaer praised Daniel James after the Welshman struck the winning penalty in the shoot-out victory against AC Milan.

The 21-year-old kept his nerve to sidefoot past Pepe Reina, after David De Gea had saved from Daniel Maldini, to ensure the Reds triumphed 5-4 on spot-kicks, following a 2-2 draw in Cardiff. 

Speaking after the game at the Principality Stadium, the boss said the winger had been a welcome addition to his United squad during pre-season, after arriving from Swansea City in June.

“Dan is ready to go. He’s had a great pre-season and has fitted straight into the group, both as a player on the pitch and in the team, and as a person and a personality in the group,” Ole said in his post-match press conference.

“He’s been a joy to work with and I didn’t give him the last penalty, I think he wanted it and that’s always a good sign.”

Video
WATCH: Daniel James speaks to MUTV pitchside after the shoot-out win against AC Milan.

James, who had started all five of our pre-season games prior to Saturday's match against AC Milan, was given a rapturous reception when he came off the bench in his home country. 

The youngster gave the 65,982-strong crowd an idea of what he can do, regularly outpacing opposite number Ivan Strinic down the Italians’ left flank – and that’s something Ole wants to see more of going forward.

“I think that’s what we want a Manchester United player to do [get the fans off their seats],” the manager added.

“On the other side of it, as a defender, you don’t really want him running at you with the ball. We just have to catch up with him when he crosses the ball by getting players into the box for him.”

The former Swansea man joined United after making an impressive breakthrough at the Liberty Stadium last season, and Solskjaer insisted any talk about his price tag won't weigh too heavy on our new signing’s shoulders.

“He cost what he cost but I’m pretty sure - in fact I’m confident - he’s going to be doing well for us,” the boss said.

Reading this in our app? If not, you might miss some exclusive features not found on ManUtd.com. Download the Official App here.

Recommended: