Continued from Part I
In a summer where the club has failed to bring in talented players, Januzaj has repaid the trust that David Moyes had shown in him by performing at a consistently high level. After impressing in the pre-season tour for Manchester United, Januzaj was almost a certainty for the first team. However, a niggling injury kept him out of the first team for a while.
All this time, United had to endure a dismal run of results that saw them make their worst start ever in the Premier League era. In his first full debut at Sunderland this season, United had already fallen behind early on in the first half and hardly asked any questions off the home side.
Patrice Evra found the 18-year-old Januzaj with a low cross which ended at the back of the net. It was a well taken effort – a first time shot off his weak foot. The second goal was a beauty and had Zinedine Zidane written all over it. Januzaj hit a left foot volley into the top corner and made it look awfully easy. Ever since, the young lad has been a fixture in the Manchester United side and has continued to impress.
Coaches at United are divided on Januzaj’s ideal position on the pitch. The likes of reserve team coach Nicky Butt and former United first team coach Rene Meulensteen believed that the best position for him would be just behind the striker as his playmaking qualities were out there for everyone to see. Januzaj also scored a handful of goals in his first under-21 Premier League in the number 10 position where he thrived for the Reserves.
His obvious dribbling and crossing skills have impressed current United manager David Moyes, who has fielded the Kosovar on either wings this season. With Wayne Rooney occupying the number 10 spot and Japanese playmaker Shinji Kagawa hot on his heels, Moyes has deemed it fit for Januzaj to play on the wings. Sir Alex described Januzaj as a beautifully balanced player and it shows as opposition defenders have found it extremely hard to get the ball off him.
The current season has already seen Januzaj score important goals and make vital assists. He has been extremely good on the ball. At times this season, Januzaj seemed to be the only guy in the United lineup who could make things happen for the Red Devils.
It has been refreshing to see Januzaj take his opportunity. For a lad of his age, Januzaj is a naturally gifted footballer who is streets ahead of his generation at this moment in time. It may be too early to pass judgments, but I will not be surprised if this guy goes on to achieve great things at the Theater of Dreams.