Dan James could have been finished before Leeds United developments

Dan James is turning back the clock with his Leeds United form after international disappointment with Wales, Dean Saunders has said.

Speaking on talkSPORT (1 January, 9:28), Saunders noted that the Welsh contingent at Elland Road were a key reason why he wants to see them back in the top flight, and singled out James for praise.

Casting his mind back to James' decisive miss in Wales' penalty shootout loss which saw them fail to reach Euro 2024, Saunders argued the winger is showing the form he displayed for Swansea City.

He said: “I’m hoping that Leeds go up. Obviously, we’ve got four Welsh players, playing for Leeds.

"I’m really pleased for Dan James – he’s missed a vital penalty for Wales, and it could have finished him off, but he’s come back, and he’s playing like he was playing when he was at Swansea.

"Just using his pace – he’s quick as lightning – so they’re steaming out in front.”

Dan James could have been finished at Leeds United

The Elland Road faithful are well aware of James' blistering breakthrough during his time with Swansea – given that January 2019 was the transfer window in which the Whites first tried to sign him.

Although James' transfer six years ago – which went as far as the contract signed and medical complete before Swansea pulled the plug – didn't come to pass, the 27-year-old is now making up for lost time.

Having finally hit his straps in LS11 last term, two years after completing his long-awaited transfer in 2021, James is now arguably the best player in Daniel Farke's side with United top of the Championship.

James' penalty miss in the March 2024 international break – and the ensuing disappointment for him, Ethan Ampadu and Joe Rodon – was seen as a key factor behind last season's failed promotion bid.

This time around though, James is coming to the fore, with his five goals and three assists in 18 games so far showing that the Peacocks are getting the best of a player who has become their key man.

In other Leeds news, one of United’s transfer targets is growing frustrated at his club and could push for an exit in January.

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