Manchester United's Daniel James did not get knocked and was just ‘acting’, Wales manager Ryan Giggs says

Player went down from a challenge with Domagoj Vida, but was able to continue despite initial concern

Jack Rathborn
Monday 14 October 2019 03:32 EDT
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Ryan Giggs lauds match-winner James as Wales make ‘perfect’ start to qualifying

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Daniel James has denied he was knocked out during Wales’ draw with Croatia in Cardiff on Sunday.

The Manchester United winger appeared to be unconscious after a strong aerial challenge with Domagoj Vida.

Despite laying motionless on the pitch for a few seconds before the medical team rushed to his side, James maintains he was conscious.

“[I’m] fine,” James told Sky Sports. “He caught me in the head. I didn’t get knocked out.

“We knew it was going to be tough. It was a quick turnaround. We started well, although we conceded.

Daniel James lies on the ground vs Croatia
Daniel James lies on the ground vs Croatia (Getty)

“To get the goal back showed character. There were a few tackles flying in but you expect that in these games.

“We’ve shown what a great team we are. It was about bouncing back.”

While Wales boss Ryan Giggs claims James was just “acting”.

James continued the game for Wales
James continued the game for Wales (Getty)

“Dan James went down and stayed down,” Giggs said. “A bit of acting really.

“The medical staff went over. He was compos mentis. We did tests at half-time and he passed them. He’s fine.”

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