Paul Robinson: Dan James is not at the Leeds United level yet despite improved display v Watford
We’re delighted to welcome former England goalkeeper Paul Robinson as our exclusive columnist as each week he’ll be giving his views on the biggest talking points at Leeds United.
Paul Robinson was enthused by the performance of Dan James against Watford, but believes he was lucky to be handed a Leeds United start.
James, 23, was a £25million [Sky Sports] summer signing from Manchester United on deadline day, but he endured a difficult start to life at Leeds as the Whites failed to win any of his first four games (in 90 minutes).
However, Leeds claimed their first Premier League win of the season at Elland Road against the Hornets, with Diego Llorente’s strike handing them a 1-0 victory.
James’ performance was generally well-received by Leeds fans who were enamoured by his endeavour and fearlessness at running towards defenders.
Indeed, there was great surprise that he failed to win a penalty after a couple of incidents in Watford’s 18-yard box.
Ex-Whites goalkeeper Robinson was impressed with the Wales international, but believes there is a lot more to come.
“I thought it was better but I still don’t think it’s at the level where he wants it to be at because he’s played too much of a bit part to hit the ground running,” Robinson told MOT Leeds News.
“He was definitely better, it was an improvement.
“I know Jack Harrison was struggling with an injury which is why I think if Harrison was fit he would’ve got the nod, but he wasn’t fully fit so it was a good opportunity for James to play and I think he did okay.
“He did well, he got better, but I don’t think he’s at the level he wants to be at yet. His end product has got to improve, but under [Marcelo] Bielsa, he definitely will improve.”
In other Leeds United news, a BBC pundit has called for a lifetime ban after this Whites player incident.