Marcelo Bielsa hints Daniel James may have solved big Leeds United problem
Leeds United boss Marcelo Bielsa remained coy when asked whether Daniel James will start as a striker against Everton.
James scored twice against Aston Villa as Leeds earned a 3-3 draw. The 24-year-old has been in good form recently, managing three goals in his last five games.
The Whites are without England striker Patrick Bamford, but it appears that Bielsa may have found a solution to his attacking problems.
When asked whether James will start as a striker in the next match, Bielsa said, as quoted by Leeds Live: “Fundamentally, I think about the offensive game of the team.
“Our best four positions in attack articulate. The availability of the players to consider and the form of each of them. Depending on that I see what the best decision is I can make.”
The Argentine has also refused to take credit for developing James, adding: “No special work has been done. He has the features to be able to play in that position. The fact James was able to score goals has a special repercussion. To have scored nine goals in the last four games allows us to think it’s an attack that works.”
Typical Marcelo
Throughout his managerial career, Bielsa has shaped the futures of countless players, and that is why he is so loved everywhere.
The Argentine believes in teamwork, and he never takes any credit for himself. In this case, he must have worked with James on the training ground, developing him as a striker in the absence of his key players, but he hasn’t taken any credit.
Bielsa is an admirable character. He can speak about his tactics at length, while at other times, he hardly gives anything away.
James brings pace, dynamism and energy upfront. The front three of Rodrigo, Jack Harrison and James bring tactical flexibility to the side, especially with Raphinha also involved.
Joe Gelhardt is another option for Bielsa, but the Argentine still probably views him as an impact player off the bench.
It’s an important game (12 February) on Saturday. Having failed to win their previous two games, the Whites will be determined to pick up a positive result at Goodison Park.
In other Leeds United news, Gary Lineker was left stunned by ‘Bonkers’ developments in Aston Villa draw this week