With England’s friendly against Holland the following Wednesday it was a timely demonstration of his abilities, although Sven Goran Eriksson opted to keep Paul Robinson in goal.
James relinquished the England keeper’s jersey to Robinson following a poor performance in the World Cup qualifier in Austria in September, when the football press took their criticism of the man they like to call 'calamity James' to another level.
Although he hasn’t worn the Three Lions since, the City keeper is showing signs of peaking in the twilight of his career. Much like Roy Keane and Dennis Bergkamp, the 34-year-old James looks to be enjoying an Indian summer.
Moreover, the calls for Alan Shearer to return from his international exile only emphasises the ability he continues to procure at St. James' Park.
So James can now attempt to reclaim his status as ‘England’s No.1’ before the next World Cup double-header, against Northern Ireland (March 26) and Azerbaijan (March 30).
However, any praise that is lavished on James also needs to be transmitted to the solid rock that has stationed itself in front of him in the City defence.
Richard Dunne was exemplary at Chelsea and also against United on Sunday (their two goals apart, of course), and his consistency has owed much to his partnership with Sylvain Distin, but more to his improvement and maturity throughout the season.
Kevin Keegan has been constantly criticised for his side's defensive frailties, but much credit has to be granted to the manager, who has created the harmony that now exists in the back four when everyone is available.
The proof is there for all to see: City have a better defensive record than Arsenal - the invincibles of last season. In all the Blues have only conceded 29 goals, compared with 54 goals last season.
James and his colleagues have aided some great City performances this season. They have not conceded a single goal in two games against Chelsea and have earned well-deserved draws in away fixtures at Old Trafford and Highbury.
Hopefully James can keep up that form and really give Sven something to think about when he chooses his side to face NI at Old Trafford.