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News
Marcelo Bielsa issues verdict on Dan James display in Leeds draw
Marcelo Bielsa has praised Dan James after the forward’s performance for Leeds United in their stunning 3-3 draw with Aston Villa on Wednesday, .
The Whites more than played their part in a six-goal thriller at Villa Park. And it was James who broke the deadlock with a smart finish into the bottom corner.
However, Villa struck back superbly. A mixture of some Philippe Coutinho and Jacob Ramsey magic coupled with some calamitous defending from the visitors looked set to leave Leeds 3-1 down at the break.
But James got the visitors back into the contest. His brave header helped bundle the ball over the line. He had no right to win the ball ahead of Tyrone Mings.
Diego Llorente completed the comeback in the second-half. But from a Leeds perspective, it looked to be a particularly significant occasion for James.
The Welshman has come in for criticism throughout his time at Leeds. And he has not always looked particularly convincing up front. Certainly, many were calling for Joe Gelhardt to start up front against Villa.
But James vindicated Bielsa’s faith. So it was no surprise that the Leeds boss was full of praise for the summer signing.
“I’m very happy for him,” he said, . “I sincerely value the contributions that Dan makes to our game. That he scored is a lot better. But even when he doesn’t score he makes contributions for our offensive game, to be profound.”
Dan James gradually silencing more and more of his doubters at Leeds
James always faced an uphill battle proving himself at Elland Road. He arrived for a large sum. And he joined from a club Leeds fans would not mind having to little to do with.
He has struggled at times to live up to expectations. And being deployed as a striker has only made James’ task at Leeds much tougher.
However, he was brilliant in the 3-2 win at West Ham in January. He also scored in the victory over Burnley.
And he has now played a key role in an impressive draw at Villa Park. There is a lot to like about James’ game right now.