Sky Sports pundit awestruck by what ‘absolutely brilliant’ Dan James did in Leeds United v Preston
Jermaine Beckford was awestruck by what Dan James did in the first half of the Leeds United clash against Preston North End on Sunday (21 January).
Speaking on Sky Sports Football (12:54pm), the pundit said it was an “absolutely brilliant finish” from the Welsh international as he headed home the equalising goal just six minutes into the game after Will Keane had given the Lilywhites the lead on two minutes.
He added that it was also “brilliant play” from left-back Junior Firpo as his cross from the left-hand side found the 26-year-old at the back post at Elland Road.
“This one here, brilliant play,” said Beckford. “You have to ask the question who is there, he’s being dragged across a little bit too much and I think he’s worried about Patrick Bamford, obviously he’s far more of an aerial threat than Dan James is at the back post. But an absolutely brilliant finish here.”
Joel Piroe then scored an injury-time penalty to secure a 2-1 victory for Leeds, who are now just four points back off second-place Southampton.
Right place
It was excellent play all around from Leeds as they broke quickly before the ball was played out to Firpo on the left, with his expert cross finding James perfectly.
While it was a relatively straightforward header for the winger, he was in the right place at the right time as he stole a march on his marker.
That threat inside the box is something he’s definitely added to his game this season as he was often criticised previously for not doing enough in the final third.
It’s been a completely different story this season, however, after he’s scored 10 goals and registered six assists in 28 appearances so far during this campaign.
Those contributions from players such as him are going to be vital in the final few months of the season as the Whites look to put a strong run together to challenge for promotion.
In other Leeds United news, Farke has shared the Whites’ stance on making a loan move permanent.
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