Manchester United forward James Wilson joins Championship side Brighton on loan

Manchester United starlet James Wilson has joined second-tier English club Brighton & Hove Albion on loan till the end of the season, both the clubs confirmed on Friday, 27 November.

The 19-year old footballer, who has made just two appearances for United this season, has been sent to the Championship club in order to help him get more playing time, United manager Louis van Gaal explained in a press conference following confirmation of the move.

"We have to think what is better for a player like Wilson and at the moment he does not have too many possibilities to play on a higher level. We believe in him so he has to develop himself elsewhere. If we need him, we can call him back," the Dutchman said.

Answering questions on United fans' reaction to Wilson's move, Van Gaal added, "Players of his age need to play and I can imagine that fans are saying that this is ridiculous, they have difficulties to score, but that is a short-term thought."