Manchester United have decided to send talented young striker James Wilson on loan to Championship side Derby County. The forward, who was scouted by United at the age of seven, will spend the 2016-17 season with the Rams.
Wilson has four goals in 20 premier league appearances for Manchester United. He came into the limelight after he scored twice against Hull City in the 2013-14 season, when United were managed by then-interim manager Ryan Giggs.
However, he remained a fringe player under Van Gaal and was loaned out to Brighton and Hove Albion, where he scored 5 goals in 28 appearances.
This season, the competition is fierce in the starting lineup with Wayne Rooney, Zlatan Ibrahimovic, Anthony Martial and Marcus Rashford all competing for starting places. In such a situation, even to get a substitute role is pretty hard.
Derby County’s manager Nigel Pearson told the club website, “He will be a great addition to this squad. What I like about this loan deal is that he’s here for the whole season. Manchester United are pretty selective in terms of where they choose to send their players to. I am delighted he is joining us and he has qualities that will complement what we already have here. It is a signing that is mutually positive. We hope that he has a positive experience here and we’re getting a player that is highly thought of by one of the country’s top sides.”
Ironically, he scored in both fixtures against Derby for Birghton last season.
This season would likely be an important one for Wilson, if he were to have any hopes of breaking into the first team at Manchester United. Next season could see one or two slots opening for the forward role, and if he can make a significant impact at Derby County, he could be in contention to emulate Rashford and stake a claim in the team.
Wilson has also played for the England Under 16, Under 19 and Under 21.
