Daniel James happy to be back at Leeds United as he shares message to fans
Leeds United winger Dan James has shared his happiness at being back at the club this pre-season, having spent last year on loan at Premier League overachievers Fulham, when speaking to LUTV, reported via Wales Online.
The rapid Welsh winger spoke to LUTV following the club’s friendly game against AS Monaco and admitted that he is happy to be back at Elland Road, discussing his love for the club and desire to help the team push for promotion in the coming season.
James spent last season on loan at Fulham, who finished 10th in the Premier League, defying pre-season expectations. The winger only made 20 appearances and averages just 30 minutes per game as he was largely used as a substitute, and will expect to earn more playing time at Leeds.
Speaking to LUTV, the Welshman revealed: “All in all, the last two or three weeks have been great. The boys have really drilled into what the boss wants and we’re starting to show what he wants on the pitch. The mood’s great, we’ve got a great group here, and we’re all disappointed to go down last year but everyone’s come back in raring to go.
“I’m just happy to be back, I love the place, I’m really looking forward to being back at Elland Road. Hopefully, we can show them [the fans] this year what we can do. For me, it’s what I can do with goals and assists, and what I can do off the ball, and just going into it full throttle and helping the team.”
James can play a key role this season
While competition for wingers in the current Leeds squad is as tough as you’ll ever see in the Championship, many of the wide options are tipped for moves away this summer, which could provide James with the perfect opportunity to stake his claim.
Crysencio Summerville, Willy Gnonto, Jack Harrison and Helder Costa have all been linked with moves away to varying degrees this summer, with could leave the space for James to fill upon his first season back after his loan move.
James’ pace, pressing ability and direct nature could play a key part in Daniel Farke’s side, as they look to press high and win possession back while dominating possession when they get it.
The Welshman’s last spell in the Championship came with Swansea in 2018/19, where he impressed with four goals and nine assists from 33 appearances, ultimately earning him a move to Manchester United under Ole Gunnar Solskjaer.
In other Leeds United news, an update has dropped in terms of Patrick Bamford’s future at the club.