Manchester United: James Wilson admits it was an easy decision to join Brighton on loan

Manchester United forward James Wilson has revealed that Brighton and Hove Albion were his only choice once the Seagulls admitted their interest to sign him on a temporary basis. The England U21 international joined the Championship club on loan until the end of the season after failing to break into the first-team at Old Trafford.

The 19-year-old striker, who is highly regarded at United, made just one appearance in the Premier League this campaign, when he came on for the final eight minutes during the Red Devils' 3-0 loss to Arsenal at the Emirates Stadium. Louis van Gaal was initially reluctant to send the forward on loan due to injury concerns at the club, but admitted that a loan move was the best choice for the forward, who is in desperate need for regular game time in a competitive environment. The Dutch manager also revealed a call-back option in the young striker's contract, which allows the parent to call him back in case of an emergency situation.

Wilson admitted that there were a number of clubs interested in acquiring his services, but Brighton was his preferred choice. The Seagulls are currently in third place in the Championship, one point behind leaders Derby County, but they do have a game in hand and can go top this weekend with a win over sixth placed Birmingham City. The young striker revealed that United teammate Jesse Lingard, who has previously spent time on loan at Brighton, also helped make his decision.

"There were a lot of clubs interested, but there was only one horse in the race for me. It's a brilliant club, brilliant facilities, and I think the style of play will suit my game, so that was the basis behind my decision," Wilson told Brighton's official site.

"You have to think 'How can I develop as a player?' Manchester United agreed that it was a good move for me to go out on loan."

"There were a lot of good clubs that came in for me but once Brighton were mentioned, I've been monitoring them, because they've been doing well in the league. I've watched a few of the games when I can, so it was an easy decision for me really."

"I asked Jesse Lingard for some advice too, and about what it was like here. He told me it's a great club. Everyone I've spoken to has said it's a brilliant set-up and a brilliant club, with a great bunch of lads," he added.