BAMBA ENJOYS 'WONDERFUL' DEBUT

BAMBA ENJOYS \'WONDERFUL\' DEBUT

Defender on his dream start to life at United...

Sol Bamba described his United debut as "absolutely wonderful" after helping his new team-mates secure a late Yorkshire derby win at Huddersfield.

After signing on loan from Palermo just eight days earlier, Bamba slotted straight into Neil Redfearn’s team at the John Smith’s Stadium and impressed at the heart of defence.

The 30-year-old received plaudits from Redfearn and supporters for his display at Huddersfield, as well as earning himself a place in the Football League Team of the Week

"It was absolutely wonderful, we couldn’t have asked for any more," said Bamba.

"We got a win in the local derby so we’re very happy.

"I felt okay. I’m not 100 per cent yet but I’m getting there.

"I’m happy that I managed to play 90 minutes, that is very good. I will feel better after each game.

"It wasn’t easy, there’s never an easy game in the Championship but I think, overall, I managed okay. It is tough. It’s a local derby."

United took an early lead through Sam Byram’s clever seventh-minute finish, but the hosts hit back through Harry Bunn and put the visiting defence under some second-half pressure as they went in search of a winner.

Bamba said: "We started very well in the first 20 minutes but Huddersfield started to play better.

"In the second half we dug deep and we were glad to get the three points in the end.

"Without any disrespect to Huddersfield, I think we were the better team overall. I think we deserved the three points.

"From day one when I came here, I saw the confidence in the team. We try to play good football.

"Obviously, the league table is not that great but the players didn’t have any problems with that and you could see that on Saturday."

Bamba also hailed the impact of Billy Sharp, who stepped off the bench late on to head home a 90th-minute winner in dramatic fashion.

"He’s a nightmare to play against," said Bamba.

"Like we saw, his movement for the goal was unbelievable.

"I played against him when he was at Doncaster and I never liked it! I’m glad I have him on my team."

United started at Huddersfield with four homegrown players – Charlie Taylor, Lewis Cook, Alex Mowatt and Byram – and Bamba says he has been very impressed by the club's young contingent.

"They’re unbelievable," he said. "In the middle of the park in particular, we’ve got some lovely players who can play good football.

"It’s good for them to play and get more experience."

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