Manchester United loanee James Scanlon has made his debut already, just 24 hours after leaving the club.
After missing out on a loan move at the start of the season, James Scanlon eventually secured his Manchester United exit at the most recent transfer deadline.
Scanlon signed on loan with Swindon Town, who are competing for the playoff spots in League Two.
United confirmed Scanlon’s exit at the deadline, one of several young players to leave the club’s academy on loan deals.
This is Scanlon’s first loan move, leaving to test himself after appearing to outgrow the under-21s.
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James Scanlon playing for Man Utd under-21s, black kit
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James Scanlon makes Swindon Town debut
James Scanlon was named in the Swindon Town squad for their League Two clash away at Harrogate Town, 24 hours after his loan move.
Scanlon was among the substitutes and got an early introduction, brought on in the 57th minute in place of midfielder Darren Oldaker.
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It was an immediate show of faith from Swindon boss Ian Holloway, who was looking to make a breakthrough with the game goalless against League Two’s bottom club.
Swindon secured a 1-0 win that moves them up to fifth place in the table, after scoring a late penalty.
While Scanlon was not involved in the winner, he showed a direct approach that bodes well for the weeks ahead.
1/1 Shot on Target
1/2 Successful Dribbles
3/5 Duels Won
2 Free-Kicks won
2 Corner Kicks taken
21 Touches
Scanlon’s one shot was a speculative effort from outside the box that was saved by the goalkeeper, and it was a sign of his confidence to try it.
He will take further confidence from playing 33 minutes in a win for his team, and will hope for more opportunities in the weeks ahead.
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Next step in James Scanlon’s career
James Scanlon scored a hat-trick for Manchester United’s under-21s a fortnight ago in the win over Portuguese club Sporting.
It was the latest sign that he was ready for senior football, after already making his international debut.
Scanlon represents minnows Gibraltar and has already managed to get on the scoresheet. Along the way he has faced Scotland, Croatia and Czech Republic among others.
He was crying out for a loan move to continue his development, and the move to Swindon in League Two could be just what he needs.
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