Manchester United transfer news: Gary Neville hails James Wilson's loan move to Brighton

Manchester United legend Gary Neville has backed Louis van Gaal's decision to allow James Wilson to go out on loan as the former defender believes the latest move will benefit both the player and the club. The striker struggled to get regular playing time at Old Trafford this season and is hoping to get more game time under his belt at his new club.

The 19-year-old joined Championship side Brighton and Hove Albion on loan until the end of the season on 26 November. The former Barcelona and Bayern Munich boss explained the latest move will help the attacker to develop as a player.

"People "Shocked" Wilson leaving on loan. Why? He hasn't played and is a lad who needs to play all the time at his age. Better for him and MU (Manchester United)," Neville tweeted.

"Lot of young lads end up age 22 with only 50 games under their belt through waiting in the wings. Get them playing and learning."

Wilson was expected to leave Old Trafford and go out on loan earlier in the season. However, injuries forced Van Gaal to delay the striker's move. With the teenager making a switch to Falmer Stadium, the Dutchman has been left with limited options up front.

Summer signing Anthony Martial will be the main man to lead United's attack with captain Wayne Rooney and Marouane Fellaini as the other options up front. Van Gaal fielded his compatriot Memphis Depay as a striker against Watford and he succeeded as the former PSV Eindhoven star managed to find the back of the net.

United have struggled to score regularly and the latest example includes a disappointing goalless draw against PSV in the Champions League. The Red Devils manager has blamed lack of luck for his side's poor goal scoring record.

"Of course, because the fans have to be happy, you are playing for the fans so you cannot deny that. But also you have to see how our opponents are playing against us, and when you see how they play, you know the difficulty of organising against that type of opponent," Van Gaal said, as quoted by talkSPORT.

"We are still not lucky in finishing the chances. We are creating chances, and when we are not creating, then maybe I am worried. But we are not giving much away. That is why we are second in the league and in our Champions League group."