Daniel James admits to Leeds disappointment over official announcement
Leeds United are one win away from sealing the Championship title, but they have lost out on another award within the division.
Daniel Farke’s side secured promotion with two games to spare, but they are still level on points with Burnley heading into the final game.
Leeds thrashed Bristol City 4-0 in their final home game without star player Dan James, who was ruled out through injury.
James has been outstanding for Leeds this season, but he has now been overlooked for an individual award, much to his surprise.
James disappointed over Championship Player of the Year award
James has lit up Elland Road with his sensational performances for Leeds this season, and was one of the best players in the entire division.
The 27-year-old was nominated for the Championship Player of the Year award, but was ultimately not crowned the winner in Sunday’s (27 April) ceremony.
| Competition (2024/25) | Appearances | Goals | Assists |
| Championship | 36 | 12 | 9 |
James was nominated alongside Burnley goalkeeper James Trafford and Sheffield United midfielder Gustavo Hamer, with the latter picking up the award.
Speaking after the win over Bristol City, James told reporters that he was saddened not to win the award.
“I’d be lying if I said I wasn’t a little bit disappointed. Two other great players. Congrats to Gustavo,” James stated.
James had better output for Leeds than Hamer in Championship
Hamer is more of an attacking midfielder, with James a winger, but the Leeds star had better output in front of goal this season.
James scored 12 goals and provided nine assists in 36 Championship appearances, while Hamer scored nine and assisted seven times in 40 appearances.
It is tough to compare players in two different teams and positions, but many Leeds fans may argue that James deserved the award, particularly as his performances could help seal the title.
There is the caveat that Hamer played in a worse team than Leeds, and also made more appearances as James suffered injury issues, but given his excellent campaign, the Whites star may be right to feel frustrated that he did not win the award.