Redknapp: Januzaj The Answer

Adnan Januzaj is more talented than Memphis Depay and has the quality to support Wayne Rooney in attack for Manchester United, according to Jamie Redknapp.

The 20-year-old was the surprise inclusion in United’s team at Aston Villa, replacing Ashley Young and perhaps more surprisingly occupying the number 10 position in United's second successive league victory.

The Belgium international vindicated Louis van Gaal’s decision to include him as he scored United’s winner at Villa Park.

And, speaking on Football Special, Redknapp argued Januzaj was more than capable of providing support for United’s only recognised striker, captain Rooney.

“Januzaj has put himself right in the equation to take up the number 10 role and ease some of the pressure on Wayne Rooney,” Redknapp said.

“The really good news from Friday’s game for United is that Januzaj has come back into the equation.

“He looked like a man who might have been sent out on loan, with Sunderland reportedly interested in him.

“United have signed Memphis Depay for £31million, I think they already had someone in their ranks who is more talented. Januzaj is an exceptional player.

“He’s a special player. I remember the first time I saw him playing for United, the two goals he scored against Sunderland. He can do special things with a football.

“Now, he wasn’t magnificent today by any stretch of the imagination, but the footballing arrogance will come when he plays more and gains confidence.

“He drifts pass people, he has a unique talent like that. Once he gets in the box he comes alive.

“He’s a special player in this team, he can turn people inside out as he did today when he produced a piece of skill to leave Micah Richards for dead before finding the back of the net.”

Januzaj’s first-half strike proved to be the difference in the first Friday night football match held outside the holiday period since 2004.

And former United striker Dwight Yorke believes Januzaj could be a valuable part of United’s team, should he take a more prominent role in the United first team.

“Januzaj is a special talent,” Yorke said. “The kid just wants to play, he has be deprived of not playing on a regular basis.

“He is the candidate in my opinion to support Rooney. Van Gaal should trust him a little but more and give him a bit more confidence. This goal will boost his confidence going forward.”

Credit: Skysports.com