Daniel Farke says 26-year-old picked up a knock to his shin in Leeds United draw at Rotherham

Add as preferred source on Google

Dan James picked up a knock on his shin when tackled by Lee Peltier in the penalty area during last Friday’s 1-1 draw against Rotherham United – according to Leeds United manager Daniel Farke.

James, 26, was on the receiving end of a robust tackle from ex-Leeds defender Lee Peltier last Friday. Farke spoke of how he felt it should have been a penalty, and fans were fuming on social media after.

The Wales star is first choice at the moment, starring for Leeds in recent matches. In 15 Championship outings, James has had a hand in eight goals – only starting 12 of those. He’s set to start on Wednesday.

Farke was asked about the injury status of his squad. He said in his press conference, as per the club’s YouTube, that Liam Cooper and Georginio Rutter are fit – but that James picked up a “bloody shin”.

“No guarantees. Knocks in the game happen. Daniel James suffered one in the last game and normally it’s a penalty. His shin was bloody. Can only reduce the amount of injuries and the time they spend out.”

Dan James picked up a knock to his shin at Rotherham United

James has been excellent and keeping him fit is key. But, if the Welsh ace is questionable, then perhaps it makes sense to allow the Welshman to rest on Wednesday night against Swansea – ahead of Saturday.

A crucial clash against Middlesbrough is on the horizon. Leeds have options to come in if James is not 100%, in Willy Gnonto, Jaidon Anthony or Ian Poveda. The latter impressed off the bench at Rotherham.

So, having James is fit but if it means resting him on Wednesday against Swansea, then so be it. Farke will be the one who has to make the decision, with both games coming inside the space of 72 hours.