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Rio Ferdinand has named Daniel James as Manchester United's 'most influential player' this season.

James has scored three goals in his first four appearances for United, and has impressed with his pace and his direct play.

The 21-year-old signed in the summer along with defenders Aaron Wan-Bissaka and Harry Maguire for a total outlay of close to £150million.

But James' transfer from Swansea City only accounted for around £15m of that spending - and the youngster has already shown it was money well spent.

He has been a rare highlight in a season in which United have struggled so far, with Ole Gunnar Solsjkaer's side languishing in 12th place in the Premier League.

(Image: Alex Livesey)

James has also scored two goals in six appearances for Wales since making his debut last year.

Former United defender Ferdinand has been impressed with James and hailed him as United's "main man".

But he says it is a telling observation on the rest of the squad, when a young player who was signed as a future prospect has been called upon to drag the team up a level.

"I don’t think they [United] expected what they have got from Daniel James so early on in his Manchester United career," Ferdinand told talkSPORT.

(Image: BT Sports)

"He’s probably been their most influential player so far, so what does that really say about that squad?

"You’re buying someone from Swansea who was probably brought in as someone who is going to flourish at a later date.

"However, he’s been forced to the forefront as their main man in the team at the moment. That really says where Manchester United are at this minute in time."

United have been left short of attacking players after Romelu Lukaku and Alexis Sanchez were not replaced in the summer, with recent injuries to Marcus Rashford and Anthony Martial severely limiting the team's goal threat.