BBC Match of the Day pundit Micah Richards says Daniel James is "coming of age" at Leeds United.
The Wales star scored a brace and hit the bar from range in Leeds' 3-3 draw with Aston Villa on Wednesday night.
In the continued absence of Patrick Bamford, James played in the striker's position - a role he's not entirely unfamiliar with having played their for Swansea City and Wales on occasion - and the winger did well against the likes of Tyrone Mings and Ezri Konsa.
Richards feels he has improved already since his switch to Elland Road from Manchester United last summer.
“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 revealed last week that he felt he had learned "so much" since his move across the Pennines in a comment which will have raised eyebrows at Old Trafford.
He reiterated the point last night following the thrilling result in the Midlands.
“It’s something that we spoke about the other day,” he added.
“I want to score more goals, I want to get more assists and I’ve got to keep believing and making them runs. I got two today but I have to keep pushing, keep making them runs.
“We’ve obviously had injuries in the team and it might not be my preferred position but I really enjoy playing there. I’m learning every day under him.”
His manger, Marcelo Bielsa, was keen to stress that James offers more than just goals to this team.
"I'm very happy for him," said Bielsa. "I sincerely value the contribution he makes to our game. He scored, so it was a lot better. Even when he doesn't score he makes contributions to our offensive game."
James will be part of Rob Page's squad to face Austria next month in their World Cup play-off semi-final at Cardiff City Stadium.
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