Dan James says Leeds United player has been playing in the wrong position for last three years

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Dan James says Leeds United star Ethan Ampadu is thriving in central midfield at Leeds United after three difficult years in which the Welshman played as a defender – in Italy, and at Sheffield United.

Ampadu, 23, joined Leeds in the summer and has since played every single minute of all 21 games as a midfielder. A quite incredible run of form from the Welshman, who’s been largely consistent throughout.

It comes after four consecutive loan spells at RB Leipzig, Sheffield United, Verona and then Spezia – the latter two coming in Italy. At Leipzig, Ampadu struggled to get game time, managing just seven outings.

But then at Bramall Lane and in his two years in Italy, Ampadu was more of a central defender, or part of a back three than what seems to be his natural role as a midfielder. James spoke to BBC Radio Leeds.

“Ethan played centre-back for three years in a row I think, this year he’s really excelled in midfield. He’s shown how good he has been, and that’s his position. It helps us a lot for Wales, as well,” James said.

Dan James says Leeds star Ethan Ampadu is thriving in midfield

Ampadu has been excellent for Leeds. A real leader and already a player that many are deeming a future captain. There have been games, especially in recent weeks, where maybe his form has slightly dipped.

The win over Swansea saw Ampadu struggle, before his assist for Georginio Rutter. Perhaps, it might be time for Ampadu to have a rest but there is no doubt the Welshman is a midfielder, and is in top form.

Leeds are next in action on Saturday lunchtime when we travel to Ewood Park to take on Blackburn. The mid-table side come into the game after a loss to Sheffield Wednesday, while we’ve won two in a row.