Dan James situation showcases how 49ers got it horribly wrong at Leeds last summer
Dan James has had no influence at Leeds this season.
And that isn’t entirely his own doing, in fairness.
James has been afforded just four Premier League starts for Leeds this season, with Daniel Farke’s decision to switch to a back five proving costly in his bid for more gametime.
The change in system has seen the Whites play without wingers for the most part, which is where James is at his best.
But that, added to the lack of impact he has had when he has played, certainly raises questions as to why the 49ers did what they did in the summer.
Why did Leeds hand a new contract to Dan James?
As for why, his form in the Championship was the reason.
James played an influential role in Leeds’ promotion, having scored 12 goals and registered nine assists across all competitions.
However, after 15 appearances this season, this Welshman has failed to register a single goal contribution, showcasing the struggles he has faced with the step-up in quality.
In the Premier League, James has created just eight chances, with only one of them being deemed a big chance, compared to the 44 and 16 that he managed in the second tier, albeit in more games.
And when compared to his stats per 90 in the Championship last season, it’s clear that it’s his level, as demonstrated by the Sofascore graphic below.
Many knew that was the case anyway, but with Farke so quick to switch to a system that doesn’t require him, as well as his lack of influence throughout his career in the Premier League, it makes little to no sense why he was given a new deal.
Could James leave Leeds this summer?
Yes, is the answer to that.
And in all honesty, it feels like the most likely outcome.
Despite his struggles in the top flight, James has still showcased the quality that he has to offer, and for sides across Europe or in the Championship, he would be an excellent addition.
Leeds would be well-positioned to get a reasonable fee for a player that has no future at Elland Road, given that Farke now seems highly unlikely to revert to a formation that utilises wingers.
The money from his exit would be best served strengthening their central options, which is what the Whites look set to do this summer, providing they can avoid relegation.
But with nine games to go, and a six-point cushion on the bottom three, it is looking as though Leeds will be successful in their attempts to avoid the drop.
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