Micah Richards has claimed that Leeds United winger Dan James is ‘coming of age’ after his side’s 3-3 draw at Aston Villa on Wednesday night, as he told Match of the Day.
The former right-back thinks James is changing from his Manchester United days, where he would ‘fluff his lines’, but he is now ‘more measured and composed’ in front of goal.
The 24-year-old scored a brace last night, as both the Yorkshire and Midlands duo played out yet another drama-filled thriller at the Villa.
That’s three games in a row that Marcelo Bielsa has rocked up to Villa and his side have scored three goals.
This time, they weren’t able to secure maximum points, as Richards lauded what James brought to the table.
“He scored what two goals before the Villa game and he got another two today,” said Richards. “I thought his all-round game was outstanding.
“He has played in a central role. At Manchester United, he used to get into some very good positions and fluff his lines a little.
“But I am now seeing a more measured and composed approach. His runs in behind, going from out to in. As a defender, it’s an absolute nightmare – and his link-up play is very good as well.
“Playing on the wing, to play as a striker, it’s different because you have your back to goal. You are playing against Mings and Konsa, who are very strong – no defender wants to play against pace and movement – and I think in this Leeds side he is coming of age.”
James is a winger by trade, but against Villa, he showcased attacking movement and finishing ability a top-quality striker would be proud of.
Throughout the 90 minutes, the Wales international just didn’t stop making runs in behind Villa’s defence.
He caused the whole backline problems, and for his second goal, which was more scrappy, it was his anticipation and awareness that helped him bundle the ball over the line.
There’s no doubt that Patrick Bamford’s injury has been damaging to Leeds, but during his time off, Marcelo Bielsa might just transform James.
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