Briefing: James is always in Ole's plans
Manchester United boss Ole Gunnar Solskjaer has stressed that Daniel James is always in contention for a place in the side.
The flying Welshman has now scored four goals in his last seven United games after adding the final strike in the 4-0 victory at Real Sociedad on Thursday night.
It followed James's maiden Champions League goal in the win over Istanbul Basaksehir earlier in the campaign.
James: Hopefully they give me the assist!
Our no.21 gave his thoughts on the VAR check, his excellent goal and the Reds' attacking options...
James's form suggests he is pushing for inclusion in the home game against Newcastle United on Sunday, particularly after performing well in the corresponding fixture at St James' Park.
"Dan has always been in my mind," said Solskjaer afterwards. "Always in contention. You can see his X-factor tonight, his work-rate, his pace and his running in behind teams. I think he’s scored in his last couple of appearances now and he’s working every single day on improving his game so I’m delighted for him and he knows how much we value him."
In a separate interview with BT Sport, the manager added: "I'm very pleased for Dan, but every goal, it might be the last you score, so you have to celebrate every goal that you score as it deserves it. It was a good goal. I liked his decision-making, that he went all the way without looking too early for a pass.
“I’m very pleased for him. He is getting back to his best again, Dan.”
WHAT'S HAPPENING TODAY?
There is a chance to hear from Ole and see his media briefing at 13:30 GMT, as his pre-match press conference shifts the focus to Newcastle's visit to Old Trafford in the Premier League on Sunday.
Former skipper Steve Bruce brings his Magpies to Old Trafford with the Reds looking to regain domestic form after the splendid triumph in Turin.
It is 111 years since the first game at the Theatre of Dreams, a 4-3 defeat to Liverpool in 1910, and every United fan will be wishing Paddy Crerand a happy 82nd birthday.
Ole's post-match press conference
The boss was asked about Daniel James, Bruno Fernandes, Amad and more, after Thursday's victory...
WHAT HAPPENED YESTERDAY?
As already mentioned, United beat Real Sociedad 4-0 to take a big step towards qualification for the round of 16 of the Europa League. The second leg is at Old Trafford next Thursday, with kick-off at 20:00 GMT.
Tottenham also won, 4-1 at Woflsberger, while Leicester City (0-0 at Slavia Prague) and Arsenal (1-1 away to Benfica) had to settle for draws.
Other teams registering victories in the competition included the likes of Rangers, Villarreal, Roma, Ajax and Shakhtar Donetsk.