Wales boss Rob Page has told BBC Sport that Leeds United winger Dan James is “disappointed” and “frustrated” with his lack of game time on loan at Fulham – with Page including the winger in his Wales squad during the break.
Page has overlooked the fact that James is struggling to make an impact at Fulham. The 25-year-old left Leeds in the summer, after the club brought in Willy Gnonto and Luis Sinisterra out wide. He was hoping for more game time.
But, Fulham also signed Willian and Manor Solomon and the duo are shining on the wings. Bobby Decordova-Reid is also above James in the pecking order – leaving the Wales man to start just four of only 16 games for the Cottagers.
He came off the bench on Sunday evening at Old Trafford for a few minutes, as Fulham were shown three red cards in a matter of seconds – losing to Manchester United 3-1. Page was asked about James’ lack of minutes at Fulham.
“DJ’s fine but disappointed he’s not playing, of course,” Page said. “He’s gone to play football. He finds it frustrating that’s he not getting the minutes he would like. It’s not what we want, but it’s something we’ve been used to.
“He’s disappointed not to be playing but he’s ready for this camp and he’s really looking forward to getting going. DJ has still got the same ability and talent when he went to Man United,” Wales manager Page said as per BBC.
Wales boss Page: Leeds winger James is frustrated on loan at Fulham
At his best, James is a real asset. But Leeds now have Gnonto and Crysencio Summerville as options on the flank as young, wonderkid options. Sinisterra and Jack Harrison are more senior, while Brenden Aaronson can play wide.
Right now, would Leeds take James back – especially, after such a disappointing spell at Fulham so far? Ultimately, Leeds spent £25m on James and the chances are, we are not going to see much for Andrea Radrizzani’s outlay.
He has a contract at Leeds until the summer of 2026. If Javi Gracia is at Leeds next season, and if the club are in the Premier League, then the chances are he will take a look in pre-season – before probably, another loan exit.
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