How Dan James became the ‘main man’ for Leeds United and Wales
James’ terrible speed has always made him a dangerous player.
Or as Bellamy once described, “sincerely”, he didn’t have his first four games in his successful National League campaign.
But now there are more games for James. A strong mindset seems to bring a sharper advantage – and, with an adjective James repeatedly used his improvement – a more “ruthless” player.
“As a winger, I want to be as direct as possible and not turn things off,” he said of what changed, except to keep hurt.
“Sometimes I look back at the game and I’m always safe. From the outside, it might look good, keep the ball, but eventually I try to create something in the team. A constant mindset ‘Can I get a goal or an assist?’ – and believe that.
“When you do send the ball, the reaction is to want it again.
“You might be working on it nine out of ten times, but this is what will happen for the tenth time and I’m trying to keep that mentality.”
Have noticed it. When Crysencio Summerville moved to West Ham United last summer, Leeds fans found a new hero and James walked into the space left.
“There is definitely something different this season,” said Newsome, a joint publicity officer for BBC Radio.
“His last goal and final product are much better. He realizes his assets – like that speed – and does his best with every opportunity, but his game is mature.
“It’s the responsibility now to be an older player, suddenly being the main one and cope with expectations.
“Leeds shirts can be heavy at times, too much for some. He thrives.”
