Experiments with Daniel James as Leeds United’s striker may finally be over with a new challenge set for the Wales international by Jesse Marsch. For long spells of last season under Marsch and Marcelo Bielsa, James was used as a centre-forward in Patrick Bamford’s absence.
Even with Rodrigo and Joe Gelhardt as more natural alternatives, the former Manchester United winger frequently led the line. However, four goals in 32 appearances summed up his effectiveness in and around the penalty box.
Marsch has reassured James and reiterated how much he does for the team as its striker, especially off the ball with stretching the opponent’s backline. With Bamford fit, a new striker being chased and Gelhardt another year older, there is likely to be less need for James through the centre.
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The 24-year-old caught the eye in Australia, admittedly against lesser opposition in Brisbane Roar, with his play off the right flank in Marsch's system. A goal and an assist in 30 minutes of that opening tour match stood out.
The right flank is likely to see a lot more of James next season once his opening-day suspension is out of the way. Marsch is clear on how he wants the jet-heeled attacker to be used.
“We were forced to play Dan at striker a lot last year, and we know that's not his best position,” said Marsch. “He likes to play more on the left.
“I've been challenging him to play a little bit more on the right, so he can set himself up on his right foot and make some final plays, which he did tonight [against Brisbane]. He had a really good performance.
“We have a lot of good and flexible attacking players. It'll just be a matter of creating chemistry and understanding of roles, but using the different players' qualities at the right moments, and having flexibility within the team to get the most out of all these guys, especially now with five subs in the Premier League.
“Having a lot of attacking weapons is something you need to be successful.”
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