Credit: Imago

Jacob Raw

Mon 30 March 2026 20:10, UK

Wilfried Gnonto may have just had his hopes of a final Leeds United chance improved in the form of a negative Dan James fitness update.

James has been away with Wales over the international break, and scored a screamer of a goal despite his nations heartbreaking exit from the semi-final stage of the World Cup qualifiers after defeat to Bosnia.

His Wales head coach, Craig Bellamy, provided an injury update on his squad this Monday, and he has suggested that the winger is going to be unable to play in a friendly against Northern Ireland later this week.

Gnonto could be on his way out of Elland Road, but the Italian won’t want to go without a fight.

James has had fitness issues all season, and knowing how it usually ends with him, it could be something that Gnonto is delighted to hear.

What has Craig Bellamy said about Dan James?

Wales are said to be keeping a close eye on James before making a late call on whether he will feature against Northern Ireland.

It’s not good news for Leeds fans, who know how important the right-winger is, especially during this ongoing relegation battle.

Speaking to the media ahead of the games against Northern Ireland, Bellamy provided an update on the Whites star.

Bellamy said, as quoted by the Yorkshire Evening Post: “James, we have to check on because he’s had one game in four months leading into this – and he was ill leading into the camp.”

“I’d have loved to have kept him on for 120 minutes [against Bosnia] with the way he was playing, all day long, but physically it wasn’t possible. He was cramping up, and he needed to come off. So we’re really checking on him at the present moment.”

James has just returned from injury for Leeds, and though his issue with Wales doesn’t sound too serious, it usually is with him.

Gnonto may now have a better chance of being started once club football resumes, especially if James is injured.

What Bellamy’s update told us about three other Leeds stars

Bellamy was not any questions on Karl Darlow, Joe Rodon, or Ethan Ampadu, with the trio set to play once again this Tuesday.

The three were hailed for their performances against Bosnia, despite Wales missing out on their dream of the World Cup through a penalty shootout.

All three will most likely play against Northern Ireland, as Daniel Farke will have his fingers crossed for no more fitness issues.