Paul Merson thinks Manchester United must take Daniel James out of the team “sooner or later” as he currently looks a “bit lost”.
The Wales international has three goals and six assists for Man Utd this season since joining from Swansea City in the summer.
Despite that, James has failed to score or assist in his last nine matches for United in all competitions.
OPINION: It’s time to praise Ole Gunnar Solskjaer…
And Merson reckons it’s time to pull James out of the Red Devils’ starting XI and for the 22-year-old to be given a break.
“It was a big win for Manchester United and Chelsea, but they weren’t good,” Merson said in his Sky Sports column.
“They’re two just-above average teams, if I’m being honest. United winning just covers over the cracks, while Chelsea losing means you start seeing the cracks.
“If Chelsea put their chances away in the first half, the game’s over, but they didn’t. Harry Maguire should’ve been sent off and he then scores, so there were a lot of things where you could say with Chelsea they could’ve won the game.
“Watching last night, Sheffield United are massive players in the Champions League race. With Manchester United, you’re talking about one of the biggest clubs in the world not having a centre forward.
“They’re playing with Daniel James up front, who sooner or later has to be taken out of the team. You feel sorry for the lad, now. He looks a bit lost if I’m honest – he needs a break.”
Merson added: “James is playing all the time but his game is based on sheer pace. It won’t bring you much alone in the Premier League, and I feel for him.
Click Here: Manchester City soccer tracksuit
“He needs to be brought out of the team but they’ve haven’t got anyone to bring in for him.
“Anthony Martial scored his header, but barring that he wasn’t anywhere near it. Give him credit for the goal, but he offered nothing else.”