Adnan Januzaj committed to Manchester United despite Sunderland interest
Saturday 15 August 2015 08:12, UK
Manchester United winger Adnan Januzaj says he wants to fight for his place with reports of Sunderland wanting to sign him.
Sky sources revealed on August 5 that Dick Advocaat was keen on securing the services of the Belgian star in a loan deal, although there has been no formal approach from the Black Cats.
However, judging by his performance on Friday night in front of the Sky Sports cameras and his comments after the 1-0 win at Aston Villa, Advocaat may have to switch his attentions elsewhere.
The 20-year-old was a surprise inclusion for the Villa Park showdown where he made his first start since February.
He stole the headlines after a sublime strike on 29 minutes which ended up being the winner to ensure maximum points for his side after their two opening games in the Premier League.
Asked by Sky Sports reporter Geoff Shreeves about his Old Trafford future, Januzaj said: "It was only rumours. I am happy here and I will play for my place."
It was also Januzaj's first Premier League goal since April 5 2014 (against Newcastle) which ended a run of 1169 minutes without a goal.
He added: "I haven't had a game for a long time so my fitness is not so good but I'm happy to score for the team and the winner.
"I hope to have more games in my legs and hopefully score more goals."
Manager Louis van Gaal saluted Januzaj's strike but his comments weren't all praise for his winger.
"It was a fantastic goal by Januzaj," the Dutchman told Sky Sports. "He had a lot of ball losses and in my opinion unneccessary. So did a lot of other players and that’s why we didn’t create too many chances."
Asked if it was pleasing to know Januzaj was happy to fight for his future at the club, Van Gaal added: "I'm happy for him, yes, but it's also important he's showing that.
"He scored a wonderful goal but all the other aspects of football you have to also show it. I'm very pleased because this goal has won this game but there is more than making a goal."
