DANIEL’S UNITED JOY IS TINGED WITH SADNESS
DANIEL JAMES never thought he would ever play against Manchester United, let alone play for them.
The Wales international yesterday became Ole Gunnar Solskjaer’s first signing as United boss after completing his £18m move from Championship Swansea.
But James’s dream move to Old Trafford was also tinged with sadness as his dad Kevan, who died last month, is not here to see it happen.
“It’s surreal,” said James. “I think every kid grows up wanting to play for Manchester United.
“I never thought I’d be able to play against them, never mind play for them.
“So it’s surreal, and I’m really looking forward to it. I can’t wait to get started.
“This is one of the best days of my life and a challenge forward to.
“The Premier League is the best league in the world and Manchester United is the perfect place for me to continue to develop as a player.
“This is an incredibly proud moment for me and my family. However, it is tinged with sadness that my father isn’t able to share this experience with us.”
James, 21, has signed a five-year deal worth £70,000 a week.
And he is relishing being a part of Solskjaer’s push to take the club back to the top.
“I’ve spoke to him here,” said James.
“I think the ambition they’ve got for the club is amazing for the next few years, I’m really since looking I’ve been to get players in who ready to work hard.
“I believe in that and I’m one of those players. I’m willing to work hard. It’s a challenge I’m looking forward to.”
Joining United has completed a meteoric rise for James, who was signed by Swansea from Hull as an academy player for £72,000 in 2014 at the age of 16.
He returned from a loan spell at Shrewsbury less than two years ago without kicking a ball, and only made his professional debut for Swansea in February 2018.
He was close to joining Leeds on transfer deadline day in January, only for the deal to fall through at the last minute, and James admitted the past few months have been a whirlwind.
“Last season I didn’t think are hungry and I was