Daniel James dispels myth about himself with what he’s done at Leeds
Leeds United have been unstoppable in the Championship of late and look to be hitting momentum just at the right time.
The last-gasp drama against Sunderland on Monday (17 February) demonstrated what it means to Daniel Farke’s side to make a return to the Premier League which already feels long-awaited.
Dan James has been a hub for creativity and magic for the Whites this season, proving himself to be one of – if not the – best performers in England outside the top flight.
Dan James ‘only had pace’ – Ian Darke
James has matured into a fine player capable of winning games for his side, using his “electric” pace to great effect, according to Ian Darke.
The TV commentator, speaking exclusively to MOT Leeds News, has admitted in his younger years, the Wales winger only really had his speed as a raw attribute and did not know how to properly channel it.
The 27-year-old has fired 10 goals and six assists in the league this term, a record bettered only by Joel Piroe (14 goals, six assists), albeit the Dutchman having played six more matches.
“He’s certainly in the conversation among the best and most effective players in the Championship,” Darke lauded.
“When he was a younger player, he was always exciting with his pace, but you’d think ‘that’s all he’s got’, electric pace. He’s probably now – as a slightly older player – more rounded and with a bit of craft to add, knowing how to use that pace to affect matches.
“He’s important and he’s certainly right up there. He and Leeds can’t do much wrong.”
Leeds United need James to remain at his brilliant best
Leeds United and their supporters have embarked on a journey with their man of the moment, beginning way back before he eventually signed at Elland Road.
The infamous image of James holding up a Leeds shirt (talkSPORT) back in 2019 haunted fans on one side of the Pennines as they watched on for him to join bitter rivals Manchester United that summer from Swansea City, who did not sign off the paperwork on the planned Whites move.
Eventually becoming a Leeds player in 2021, it did not immediately work out for him as he later joined Fulham on loan, but James is now a talisman admired by many on the pitch in Farke’s side’s promotion charge.
A titanic clash awaits which could be season-defining, coming on Monday (24 February) via a trip to Bramall Lane to face off with Chris Wilder and Sheffield United – the winner ending the matchweek at the Championship summit.