Credit: Imago

Daniel Davis

Wed 22 April 2026 14:10, UK

It’s rare to see a player attempt an overhead kick in this day and age, let alone score one.

But then, James Justin is not one to fit neatly into a box. He has become Leeds United’s not-so-secret weapon, transforming from a fringe performer to an all-action dynamo. It is only right, then, that his third goal for the club was sublime and surprising in equal measure.

Ethan Ampadu had been denied by Wolves goalkeeper Dan Bentley at Elland Road after Ao Tanaka’s corner sparked havoc with 18 minutes on the clock, but the Whites kept their foot on the throat of their opponents. Noah Okafor got the flick-on, and there waiting was Justin.

In two breathtaking seconds, the defender leapt up and finished acrobatically before wheeling away to celebrate. Surely that goal will go down as one of his best? Well, no.

“I’ve actually scored quite a few decent goals, you’d be surprised,” he said. “I’m not even sure it rates in the top three. But no, it was a great goal at a great time.”

As much as Leeds have discovered about their heart and character in this relegation fight, it is arguably Justin who has been their biggest – and quietest – revelation. He will look to prove it once again when the Whites travel to take on Bournemouth at Vitality Stadium.

James Justin’s outstanding rise at Leeds

Justin’s impressive form was showcased against Wolves on Saturday. Shortly after the defender had scored, Adam Armstrong was played in over the top for the visitors. The striker was rapid, but the Whites’ newfound hero was even sharper, getting back to head clear.

Watching on from the touchline, Daniel Farke would have been pleased. He was able to rest Joe Rodon, who had played more top-flight minutes than everyone but Ampadu this season, and his three-man defence didn’t put a foot wrong. Justin in particular caught the eye.

He had arrived in Yorkshire from Leicester City as a back-up full-back last summer, albeit one signed for a pretty hefty initial £8million price tag. However, he has since played in every position across Farke’s back five and delivered beyond all expectations in each of them.

Justin is a consummate professional and gives everything for the shirt. It is the measure of the man that he suffered two relegations at the King Power Stadium and also fought back from a ruptured Achilles in 2022, becoming a better and stronger player after his return.

The 28-year-old has started all 15 of Leeds’ Premier League matches since New Year’s Day.

He was expected to play second fiddle to Jayden Bogle and Gabriel Gudmundsson on either side of the backline, but has instead potentially usurped at least one of them. This is despite him making only his first Premier League start against Manchester City on November 29.

Farke then made him wait until January 1 for his second start.

That goalless draw at Liverpool proved to be his making at Leeds. He started at right wing-back but also seamlessly stepped in to play as one of three centre-backs, demonstrating his impressive versatility. After his near faultless performance, he hasn’t looked back.

After a run of eight consecutive league starts, Farke made him captain against Birmingham City in the FA Cup fourth round in February. With Ampadu and vice-skipper Pascal Struijk not starting, Justin was entrusted with the armband, reflecting his status in the dressing room.

All that for a supposed backup. Not bad at all, eh?

It should not be forgotten, though, that he had arrived boasting plenty of Premier League experience – 99 top-flight appearances, no less. Leeds swooped for him in their quest to add more cool heads and maturity to a squad that needed to brace for difficulties this season.

“I’ve rarely played with a player of his football intelligence, how smart he is and how he reads the game,” Farke said of Justin last month. “He’s always there with the right decision.

“What he’s doing is always 9/10. He’s delivering on the highest level. It’s a joy to work with him. I’m pretty sure after his career he’ll be a top coach.”

Justin versatility crucial for Daniel Farke

Farke has valued defensive solidity and versatility this campaign, having shifted across to a back five to make Leeds harder to break down. That change has benefitted Justin greatly, with the one-time England international just as good out wide as he is down the centre.

The Whites have also relied on the fine margins to collect several crucial points. Again, Justin has been influential on this front, having scored three goals and registered an assist. Boosting their survival bid, Bogle and Gudmundsson have also delivered going forward.

Justin believes Leeds still need three more points to seal their top-flight status for another year. Really, though, they’re already safe. As a result, they can begin to relish the future. An FA Cup final, and the potential of securing European football, is tantalisingly close.

For that, they have their new defensive dynamo to thank.