Fantasy Premier League

FPL new arrivals: Wait on speedy James

By The Scout 24 Jun 2019
Daniel James, Man Utd

Man Utd winger has the skills to make a fast start but The Scout says a tough opening schedule means managers should be patient

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The Scout looks at the Fantasy Premier League potential of the summer signings ahead of the 2019/20 season.

Daniel James (MUN) £6.0m

FPL managers should be prepared to act quickly after Manchester United's tough opening schedule comes to an end, by which point James could be ready to make an impact.

In the first seven Gameweeks, Ole Gunnar Solskjaer's side play five of last season's top 10 teams.

That includes a home match with Chelsea and a trip to Wolverhampton Wanderers in their opening two fixtures.

Man Utd's first seven Gameweeks

Midfielder James will head into those matches as an uncertain starter for Man Utd.

The 21-year-old has plenty of competition on either wing in Alexis Sanchez (£7.0m), Jesse Lingard (£6.5m), Anthony Martial (£7.5m) and Juan Mata (£6.5m).

So FPL managers should use the opening Gameweeks, as well as the summer friendlies, to assess United's tactics.

Box threat

Once he settles into his debut FPL season, James could be of huge potential. 

The winger arrives at Old Trafford having produced four goals and seven assists in 33 appearances for Swansea City in the Championship.

And the underlying statistics indicate James was unlucky not to score more often in his breakout season.

Despite playing mainly out wide, he recorded 67 shots inside the penalty area last term. That was more than any United player.

Pace to burn

James's pace and ability to take on opponents could lead to points aplenty in 2019/20.

"His best attribute is his speed," Ryan Giggs, former Man Utd player and current manager of James for the Welsh national team, told United's official website.

"I've probably not seen anyone as quick as him in my whole career."

That speed led to James being fouled on 90 occasions last season, a total that would have ranked third in the Premier League.

And two of those fouls led to converted penalties.

That highlights further his potential for FPL assists as United's 12 penalties won in 2018/19 were more than any other side.

Starting cost

At a cost of £6.0m James has the potential to be a big hit if he can secure a starting spot.

But, for now, it is perhaps best to be patient with the young winger and only consider him after United's tricky start. 

See: The Scout's guide to FPL new arrivals

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