Daniel James has embarked on a special fitness regime to help him combat the physical rigours of the Premier League.
The Manchester United winger gave his employers a scare last week when he appeared to be knocked out cold playing for Wales against Croatia in their Euro 2020 qualifier, which ended in a 1-1 draw.
James collided with Domagoj Vida going for a high ball, although the 21-year-old insisted afterwards: “I’m fine. He caught me in the head. I didn’t get knocked out.”
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United, however, will still want to assess the rapid youngster when he returns to Carrington later this week, with one eye hopefully on him being able to play some part in Sunday’s massive Premier League clash against table-toppers Liverpool at Old Trafford.
And it is understood the Red Devils are doing their own bit to ensure James can look after himself on the field, recently providing him with a tailored programme that will help to build more upper body strength.
The £20m former Swansea starlet is regularly working out with United’s conditioning coaches to improve his physical power – but not at the expense of his electric pace.
James has been accused in some quarters of being a ‘diver’ during games this season, being cautioned twice for the offence so far.
But United do not see it that way and feel his speed, allied to his slight frame, means he can easily be sent flying when someone does attempt a tackle.
That is one of the reasons why boss Ole Gunnar Solskjaer and his staff believe improving James’ core strength can pay dividends in the long run.
The Welsh starlet has been one of the few bright spots at the Theatre of Dreams this season, scoring three times and showing plenty of promise that he has a big future ahead of him at United.
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