Leeds United: BBC Sport journalist shares ‘big’ Daniel James verdict ahead of Wales v Poland
Leeds United attacker Daniel James is pushing hard for a Wales starting place in their meeting with Poland.
That is according to BBC Sport journalist Dafydd Pritchard, noting that James made a “big impact” against Finland.
Wales beat Finland 4-1 on Thursday (21 March) in a Euro 2024 play-off semi-final to clinch a final clash with Poland on Tuesday (26 March).
“As was the case for the victory over Finland, Page’s toughest selection dilemma will be in attack, where the competition for places is fierce,” Pritchard wrote for BBC Sport (25 March).
“He sprung something of a surprise by starting Southampton’s David Brooks against the Finns and leaving in-form Ipswich Town striker Kieffer Moore, his only recognised natural centre-forward, on the bench – but was instantly vindicated by the former’s goal in the third minute.
“Leeds United’s Daniel James made a big impact as a substitute and scored Wales’ fourth but, while he is pushing hard for a recall, Fulham’s Harry Wilson and Tottenham’s Brennan Johnson impressed from the start.”
Will Wales boss Rob Page start Leeds United ace Daniel James v Poland?
Wales manager Rob Page certainly has a lot of tough decisions to make for the huge match against Poland at the Cardiff City Stadium.
Elland Road winger James will undoubtedly be on his mind, but perhaps it would make sense for the man in the dugout to keep things as they are given the result against Finland, which also came in Cardiff.
The Welsh blew their opponents away on home soil, with James netting the final goal of the match just 13 minutes after coming off the bench.
Given his ability to make an impact from the bench, helped by his pace, the attacker could be in for a similar role against the Poles.
There is, of course, a strong Whites contingent in the side, with Connor Roberts, Joe Rodon and Ethan Ampadu all expected to retain their places in the starting XI, with the trio all playing the entire match on Thursday.
In other Leeds United news, an Elland Road loanee has sent a message to Archie Gray as England Under-21 footage emerges.
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