James Justin’s importance to Leeds United and Daniel Farke becomes all the more clear
James Justin has been a brilliant addition to Leeds United’s squad this season.
Leeds spent £8million to sign Justin from Leicester City in the summer, and it took him a while for the defender to settle into the side.
The 28-year-old right-back has adapted well to the change in system, however, and is proving to be reliable alongside his fellow defenders.
Daniel Farke remained patient with Justin at the start of his Leeds career, but he is quickly becoming one of the Whites’ most important players as they aim to avoid Premier League relegation.
- Read more: Daniel Farke has season-defining James Justin decision to make, and it could be harsh on Leeds ace
James Justin has thrived for Leeds in 2026
Whilst it wasn’t the most exciting signing, Justin certainly offers experience and reliability that many of his fellow teammates at Elland Road didn’t have at the start of the campaign.
In 2026, he has started all nine of Leeds’ Premier League matches, captained the side, scored two goals and covered a greater distance in the PL than any other Leeds player (97.29km).
According to Sofascore, has also won the most duels won per 90 for the Whites in the Premier League this season (6.38) and the most interceptions per 90 (1.81).
He has been able to provide cover at left-back, right wing-back and right centre-back, which shows how valuable he is to the side.
Having won 60.4 per cent of his ground duels and 58.1 per cent in the league this season, it’s clear that he’s been an astute acquisition, and there’s no doubt that he can continue to start for the Whites.
Justin has established himself as a mainstay in the team, and that could be down to his success at Leicester.
Justin’s Premier League experience has been pivotal for Leeds
Justin was part of Leicester’s FA Cup-winning squad in 2021 and played an influential role in securing back-to-back fifth-placed finishes for the Foxes.
The attacking full-back was also ever-present last season, starting 36 Premier League matches as the Foxes suffered relegation to the Championship.
That is clearly reflected in how calm he is on the ball, and he rarely dives in for a tackle, which has been hugely beneficial.
| Stat | James Justin |
| Appearances | 169 |
| Goals | 11 |
| Assists | 7 |
Although his place in the team could come under threat once every defender is fully fit, his stats for Leeds and his previous success at Leicester should make him a nailed-on starter.
Farke will certainly weigh up his options, but it’s clear that he has a wonderful player at his disposal.
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