Man United’s Jordi Alba? #MUFC

Five things you need to know about Man United’s Jordi Alba

Two goals for Man United starlet Reece James in Man United’s 7-0 pre-season win against LA Galaxy has done his first team prospects no harm. Good performances in the remaining friendlies beginning with Roma on 26 July will enhance his credentials further, so Optimus J looks closely at the left-sided defender…
1) James is the younger brother of Matty James, a 23-year-old midfielder who came through United’s academy and currently plies his trade at Leicester City. He played 35 games in their Championship-winning campaign last season, and will feature in the forthcoming Premier League season.
2) James models his game on Jordi Alba, so his attacking style is no surprise. “I like to watch Jordi Alba a lot. He is a very attack-minded full-back who can defend as well. I just want to become the best I can be,” he said.
3) Along with his usual role at left-back, James has also played in midfield on occasion. The youngster says he attempts to incorporate the qualities needed for playing in the middle of the pitch into his game as a defender, taking brother Matty's advice: “He watches my games, either on MUTV or live, and tells me where I can improve as a player. He’s helped me at left-back because you can have similar attributes to the midfield position”.
4) United reserves coach Warren Joyce has praised the defender’s reliability. “Reece is very consistent and disciplined in terms of understanding his role within the team. He is somebody you can always rely on”.
5) The left-back made the final three in United’s 2014 Reserve Player of the Year award, but was pipped to the prize by Saidy Janko.

Posted in: Jordi Alba, Manchester United, Matty James, MUTV, Reece James