James Wilson: Joining Brighton an “easy decision”

Manchester United striker James Wilson says he didn’t have to think twice about joining Brighton and Hove Albion on loan.

The 21-year-old made the move from Old Trafford to the Amex until the end of the season on Thursday, after making just two appearances in all competitions for the Red Devils this season.

And the England U-21 international, who scored twice on his Premier League debut against Hull in May 2014, said making a temporary switch to the Championship high-flyers was an easy decision.

Wilson has played just 52 minutes for United this season

“There were a lot of clubs interested, but there was only one horse in the race for me,” said Wilson.

“It’s (Brighton) a brilliant club, brilliant facilities and their style of play will suit my game.

“It was an easy decision for me.”

Expected to make his debut in Saturday’s home match against Birmingham, Wilson is eyeing to form a partnership with another Seagulls striker who’s represented his country.

Bobby Zamora returned to the club this summer, 12 years after earning a move to Tottenham following an impressive three-year spell with Albion.

And Wilson is excited at the prospect of linking up with the Brighton legend, who earned two England caps under Fabio Capello.

“He’s one of the first lads I met and he seems a really nice guy,” added Wilson.

“He’s obviously a great professional to go on as long as he has, with the experience and goals he’s got in the Premier League and Championship.

“He’s a great addition to the squad and a great person to have in the changing room.”

Despite enduring a frustrating season so far at United, Wilson is hoping his loan switch can see him follow the same path as Jesse Lingard.

Former Brighton loan star, Jesse Lingard, is now enjoying a run in United’s starting XI

The midfielder spent part of the 2013/14 campaign on loan at the Amex and has recently broken into Louis van Gaal’s starting XI, resulting in a first England senior call-up earlier this month.

And Wilson revealed that he spoke with his United team-mate before making the move.

The striker said: “I asked him (Jesse Lingard) for some advice and he said it’s a great club and set-up with a great bunch of lads.

“It’s nice to come here and help Brighton out but, at the end of the day, I have to go back to my home club and try to improve there as well.

“It’s a good stepping stone, and hopefully I can go back with a lot of experience, game time and goals.”