Dan James update shared ahead of Leeds United clash v Oxford United

Leeds United have been sweating on the fitness of Dan James for the clash with Oxford United.

The Welsh winger has been out since scoring the only goal in a 1-0 win over Middlesbrough on 8 April and there were doubts about his fitness ahead of the clash.

Daniel Farke's side can take a huge step towards promotion with victory at the Kassam Stadium (18 April) and they may have received a helping hand.

Dan James status for Oxford United clash revealed

Farke had refused to confirm whether James would be in the squad for the contest but a new update has revealed that he will be.

Athletic reporter Beren Cross shared via X (18 April) that the Welshman was with the squad for the crucial Championship contest.

The news is a huge boost for the Whites as the 27-year-old is their most dangerous player.

James will be crucial to Leeds' promotion chances

The Welsh international is the most clinical attacker in Farke's squad having notched 12 goals and nine assists across 35 league matches.

The Whites are now back on track for a return to the Premier League and James will be crucial if they are going to maintain that form in their final four matches.

The veteran had gone four games without a goal before scoring in the 1-1 draw with Luton on 5 April before also notching the winner against Boro.

He needs to be on top form in the run-in as he can take the Peacocks to the top flight almost single-handedly if others are not performing.

If he is fit enough to feature, then it is a no-brainer as he is by far the biggest difference-maker for the Elland Road outfit, and regularly steps up when they need him most.

But if there are any doubts then he should left on the bench as he is far too important to miss the final three games.

If he is in similar form to when he picked up the injury, he will drastically improve the Whites' chances of reaching their ambitions and securing a top-tier berth for the first time since the 2022/23 campaign.