Harry Diamond
Daniel James has revealed why the return of Anthony Martial from injury has been important for Manchester United following their recent up-turn in form.
The French forward has impressed since returning from a thigh injury that saw him sidelined for almost two months, a spell which saw Ole Gunnar Solskjaer’s side endure a difficult run of form and struggle to score goals.
Martial has scored three times since returning against Liverpool last month and provided two assists during the weekend win over Brighton, and James admits the 23-year-old’s return has provided his side with an attacking focal point.
“We’re really enjoying our football at the minute,” James said, as per the Daily Mail. “Maybe it’s taken a few weeks to mould but we’ve all got that connection together and it’s important.
“Since Anthony has come back in, we’ve got that focal point. He’s a great link-up player. He can come short or go in behind.
“It’s been important for me and for Marcus since he’s come back into the team to get that interlink. Since he’s come back, he’s got goals and he’s got assists and he’s been great for us.”
James has impressed since his summer move to Manchester United from Championship side Swansea City, having scored three goals and provided two assists in the top flight so far.
The 22-year-old admits he has been surprised by his regular run of first-team football under Solskjaer, but believes he has handled the step-up to Premier League level well during the opening months of the new campaign.
“Coming in was always going to be tough and it was going to be different from playing in the Championship,” he said.
”I think I’ve taken it in my stride, tried to calm myself down a bit and think ‘I’m here for a reason’.
“At the start of the season, I maybe didn’t think I would play as much. Every game I’ve been learning and the gaffer has trusted me and I’ve really enjoyed it.”
Read: Solskjaer says Maguire can be Manchester United’s ‘long-term captain’
Premier League Weekly Awards: Guardiola’s meltdown, accurate Alexander-Arnold, Rashford’s back