By Pranav Shahaney

22nd Jan, 2022 | 5:05pm

Leeds United player ratings v Newcastle: Dan James disappoints

Dan James put in a disappointing performance as Leeds United lingered to a 1-0 loss against Newcastle on Saturday afternoon in the Premier League.

Despite starting the game strongly, the Whites failed to create any telling goalscoring chances.

With James as the focal point spearheading their attack, the Welshman offered very little behind the lines to cause chaos in the Newcastle backline.

Here’s how we rated the Leeds players at Elland Road on Saturday:

Illan Meslier 5

The Frenchman was having a decent game right until the 74th minute when Jonjo Shelvey’s free-kick found its way into the back of the net. He reached the ball as well but made a mess of it and let the ball go into the goal.

Luke Ayling 7

Captaining the side, Ayling did well on both ends of the pitch. He was not to be blamed for the concession of the goal.

Diego Llorente 7.5

While it was his free-kick that saw Shelvey score, he made a professional foul on the edge of the penalty area. Apart from that, he was seamless with the ball at his feet and also defended exceptionally well.

Pascal Struijk 7

Much like Llorente, even Struijk had a tidy performance and they’ve proven to be a very reliable pair at the back for Marcelo Bielsa.

Stuart Dallas 6

Had a good game at left-back but made a few silly decisions including the foul that saw him pick up a yellow card.

Robin Koch 5

Played in a more advanced position, but it did not quite work out for the best for the German. Looked out of position on a number of occasions and it seemed like he wasn’t suited to playing in midfield.

Mateusz Klich 6

The Pole tried his best to link defence and attack, but he clearly did not do enough. He had his standout moments, but not his best of games.

Raphinha 6

A quiet game compared to the very high standards he has set of himself. Could not influence the game as much as he wanted to do and it was clear that Eddie Howe had a plan to keep the Brazilian quiet.

Rodrigo 6

Played as a number 10 and seemed to struggle to get involved. He clearly wanted the ball played in quicker on several occasions and struggled to link up with Dan James.

Jack Harrison 7

Had a good game down the left wing and would have found the back of the net on another day. Unfortunately, he didn’t but that should not take him from what was a terrific performance.

Dan James 3

A disastrous performance from the Welshman who failed to lead the line with aplomb. Picked up a silly booking as well which capped off one of his worst showings in a Leeds jersey.

Subs

Joe Gelhardt 6

Tyler Roberts 5

In other Leeds United news, Phil Hay issues major January update amid recent development that would excite the Elland Road faithful.