Manchester United expect big things from fit-again midfielder Matty James.

The former England Under-19 captain clearly has potential and is looking to feature for the Reserves again on Thursday night against Aston Villa.

"Matty is a tremendous professional," reserves coach Warren Joyce told ManUtd.com. "When I go out watching the boys on loan, he was one who really excelled and was very impressive. He enjoyed his time at Preston and did exceptionally well.

"If you look at how well Tom Cleverley has done and how he progressed through his loan, Matty was certainly on a par with how he was performing in the Championship at an even younger age. So it's been disappointing for him how his career was put on hold and he's desperate to get himself going again.

"He's worked hard in training and I'm delighted to have him with us. Hopefully, he can kick on from this."