Drawing 1-1 away at Molineux was never the way that Dan James would have wanted his first start for the Red Devils to go, but Wolves are a tough side to beat, evident from the visitors’ two defeats against Nuno Espirito Santo’s men last season.
Don't be overly critical of Dan James. Jumping up from the Championship to Manchester United is always going to take time to adapt to. Give him support and watch him flourish.
— Liam Canning (@LiamPaulCanning) August 19, 2019
A lot of the focus was on James, though. The youngster started on the right-hand side of Ole Gunnar Solskjaer’s three advanced midfielders in a 4-2-3-1 system, and he was booked for diving in the 24th minute after running at pace past Joao Moutinho and going down cheaply.
After the game, the Manchester Evening News dished out their player ratings, and Dan James received a measly 3/10 on his first-ever start for the club. The fans, though, have been quick to defend their man, urging the rest of the fan base to give the youngster time and allow him to grow into the role, and some of them were full of praise for the winger.
You can read the Red Devils’ thoughts on James’ first start for United here:
Going to be brilliant this lad
— Ian (@br09ham) August 19, 2019
His work rate has been unreal. With a 2 in midfield he’s the ideal winger
— Ben Ryder (@BenRyder7) August 19, 2019
Critical? He’s been fantastic!
— MUFC Core (@MUFC_Core) August 19, 2019
Thought he was excellent tonight
— RustySheriffsBadge (@BadgeRusty) August 19, 2019
His work rate is top notch tho
— Charlie Newey (@chaza238) August 19, 2019
Man has been good today…. Love his defensive work rate and that blistering pace
— OLAJIDE (@youngjide) August 19, 2019
He just needs refining.
I disagreed with him starting but I disagree with the criticism more.
— (@utdrobbo) August 19, 2019
The Red Devils seem impressed with Dan James’ performance, as you can see above, despite some of the criticism he has received.
