Norwich City manager Daniel Farke admits he tried to sign Manchester United winger Daniel James.
James has been a revelation since joining from Swansea City.
United travel to Carrow Road on Sunday and Farke said, "I'm not surprised by how good James has been.
"I always liked him, but sadly there was no chance for us to get him when Man United called!
"To deliver that quickly on this level says a lot about his character."
Farke also discussed the pressure on Ole Gunnar Solskjaer after United's slow start to the campaign.
He added: "To follow Jose Mourinho is not easy for Ole. It's a difficult time but you can see what he wants on the pitch.
"I appreciate the job he's doing because he's doing it in a complicated period with a calm, disciplined, professional way.
"It's a question of time until United are back where they belong.
"The transition period won't last long. They're used to winning games at the club.
"We don't underestimate them."
