Sunday Mirror (Northern Ireland)
WILSON’S GOT HIS NEW GIG
EXCLUSIVE BY JOHN RICHARDSON HE might be on speaking terms with Salford’s famous owners but former Manchester United striker James Wilson says that does not reduce the expectation levels.
Life in League Two for the one-time Old Trafford prodigy is a million miles removed from his start in football. But there’s no bitterness or jealousy from the 25-year-old, who scored twice on his United debut as a teenager.
There is just a desire to help United’s class of 92, who have switched their allegiance to Salford City, to achieve new lofty ambitions.
Wilson and his Salford side will be at Wembley on Saturday to face League One Portsmouth in the final of the Football League Trophy held over from last term.
It is confirmation the club under Gary and Phil Neville, Ryan Giggs (below), Nicky Butt, Paul Scholes and David Beckham is moving in the right direction. Wilson said: “The backing from the owners is great and I think their ambition rubs off on us. I think we thrive on the extra pressure which comes with playing here.
“I’m not sure knowing them from my Manchester United days makes it any easier or harder.
“They watch us so at times it’s like they are judge and jury. But at the same time they are fans and want us to do well. I think it pushes us even more.”
His two-goal United debut feat against Hull was replicated in his first game for Salford – against Plymouth – after joining from Aberdeen last January.
“Getting game time is massive for me,” he added. “I would love to get back to playing in the Premier
League. Circumstances in football can always change and so who knows what is ahead if I play well and stay fit?”
Salford would love to add the Football League Trophy to their growing list of successes they have enjoyed since their high-profile takeover. And Wilson can’t wait to experience playing at Wembley.
He said: “I have only watched games there so being involved will be a special occasion.
“I saw England play Spain in a friendly and I’ve watched a rugby league Challenge Cup final involving Wigan Warriors. My girlfriend’s family are all mad on rugby league as well as being football fans. I had to grin and bear it for the first few years and then I started really enjoying it.
“Now this is the chance to win some silverware although the longterm focus has to be on the league.”