Wilson Wants Injury-free Run At First Team

Manchester United forward James Wilson is hoping to remain clear of injury as the youngster aims to force his way into Louis van Gaal’s starting line-up in 2015/16.

The striker, fresh from Tour 2015 presented by Aon, was speaking at a promotional event – led by Reds legend Bryan Robson – as United celebrate the unveiling of the club’s new adidas kit.

Wilson made a strong impression on the first team last season, racking up 17 competitive appearances and netting twice. As the 19-year-old bids for more involvement in the upcoming campaign, he feels maintaining peak condition is key after a successful trip to the USA.

“I just need to keep training hard,” Wilson told MUTV at the Aon Training Complex. “You hear everyone say it. If you want it really bad, you’ve got to train for it. You’ve just got to train hard, get fit and stay injury free really. For me, that’s probably one of the big things because I’ve had little injuries here and there. I’d say staying fit is the big one for me.

“It’s nice to see a bit of rain because it’s been very hot out in the USA!" he admitted, when asked to reflect on the stay across the Atlantic, which included a key part in the move that led to Jesse Lingard's goal against Barcelona.

"The tour has been an unbelievable experience for me. I expressed myself to the manager. He knows what I’m capable of and I just needed to show that. I’ve gone out there and done what I could.”

Not only is Wilson eagerly anticipating the challenges a new season presents, he’s also looking forward to starting United’s next chapter in the team’s first adidas kit since 1992.

“I love it,” he enthused. “It not only looks nice, it feels nice. You’ve got to be comfortable in what you’re playing in. It feels nice and it looks good, so you look the part.

“It’s a difference within the club and there’s a freshness when you get a new kit. You feel different in a new kit and it’s whether you like it or not – I know I, and everyone else, will love it.”