Manchester United defender Reece James has joined Huddersfield Town on an emergency loan for the remainder of the season.
The 21-year-old recently put pen-to-paper on a new contract with the Red Devils, and could look to push for a place in the first team next season. Having impressed first team manager Louis van Gaal already this season, an opportunity to feature regularly in the Championship with Huddersfield could prove the difference for the youngster.
Having initially joined Rotherham United on loan earlier in the season, James was a regular in van Gaal’s squad during the pre-season tour in which he impressed considerably. However, despite a number of youth products making their way into the first team – most notably defensive duo Tyler Blackett and Paddy McNair – James was overlooked by the Dutchman for the new season.
Huddersfield manager Chris Powell has expressed his delight for his newest arrival, commenting: “It’s fantastic news for the Club that we’ve been able to secure Reece’s services for the rest of the season.
“He excelled in a loan period in the Championship earlier this season and he possesses the quality that we need to cover for the unfortunate recent loss of Jack Robinson to injury. Once Jack was ruled out for the season, we’ve stepped up our search for a left back and the Board of Directors didn’t hesitate in backing me in the market.
“Reece is comfortable at left back or in a more advanced wing back role, which suits our style perfectly. It’s great that we have completed the move early in the international break too, as it will give him time to bed in with his new teammates ahead of our game at Sheffield Wednesday.”
James joins a number of United youngsters out on loan; with Will Keane and Ben Pearson particularly impressing for Football League sides Sheffield Wednesday and Barnsley respectively.