Fansided

The 30 Worst Premier League transfers ever made

By Peter Johnstone

Chelsea's Spanish striker Fernando Torres gestures during the pre-season football friendly match between Chelsea and Real Sociedad at Stamford Bridge in London on August 12, 2014. AFP PHOTO/BEN STANSALLRESTRICTED TO EDITORIAL USE. NO USE WITH UNAUTHORIZED AUDIO, VIDEO, DATA, FIXTURE LISTS, CLUB/LEAGUE LOGOS OR LIVE SERVICES. ONLINE IN-MATCH USE LIMITED TO 45 IMAGES, NO VIDEO EMULATION. NO USE IN BETTING, GAMES OR SINGLE CLUB/LEAGUE/PLAYER PUBLICATIONS. (Photo credit should read BEN STANSALL/AFP/Getty Images)
Chelsea's Spanish striker Fernando Torres gestures during the pre-season football friendly match between Chelsea and Real Sociedad at Stamford Bridge in London on August 12, 2014. AFP PHOTO/BEN STANSALLRESTRICTED TO EDITORIAL USE. NO USE WITH UNAUTHORIZED AUDIO, VIDEO, DATA, FIXTURE LISTS, CLUB/LEAGUE LOGOS OR LIVE SERVICES. ONLINE IN-MATCH USE LIMITED TO 45 IMAGES, NO VIDEO EMULATION. NO USE IN BETTING, GAMES OR SINGLE CLUB/LEAGUE/PLAYER PUBLICATIONS. (Photo credit should read BEN STANSALL/AFP/Getty Images) /
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BURNLEY, ENGLAND – JANUARY 17: Adnan Januzaj of Sunderland during The Emirates FA Cup Third Round Replay between Burnley and Sunderland at Turf Moor on January 17, 2017 in Burnley, England. (Photo by Robbie Jay Barratt – AMA/Getty Images)
BURNLEY, ENGLAND – JANUARY 17: Adnan Januzaj of Sunderland during The Emirates FA Cup Third Round Replay between Burnley and Sunderland at Turf Moor on January 17, 2017 in Burnley, England. (Photo by Robbie Jay Barratt – AMA/Getty Images) /

22. Adnan Januzaj

As a Manchester United player Adnan Januzaj looked like he might just be the next big thing. David Moyes saw potential in the Belgian youngster at United and his faith was repaid when Januzaj netted important goals for the Red Devils.

When the Scottish manager took over at Sunderland he must have felt Januzaj was the kind of player who could help the Black Cats survive in the Premier League, and brought him in on a season-long loan. Moyes knew all about Januzaj’s ability and he must have expected the young star to shine in a lesser squad.

The young Belgian has hardly made an impression in the north east of England though. It’s certainly hard to play in a relegation-threatened squad all season but at the same time Januzaj has had a great opportunity to prove himself this term — one which he hasn’t taken full advantage of.

Although this was only a loan move, it’s unlikely his performances will give him a chance of featuring for Manchester United next season. Januzaj seemed to lack spirit and drive, two essential skills for any talented young player trying to make the step up. Moyes must have had high hopes for Januzaj but those were dashed over the course of the season as he realized what a poor signing he’d made.

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