It is hard to remember a time in which Leeds United have been in such red-hot form. Last season, the unbeaten run from January to April-ish was excellent, but this feels like another level.
A 7-0 win over an in-form Cardiff City at Elland Road on Saturday saw Leeds secure their biggest win in 53 years, the first time Leeds have won by a seven-goal margin since the 7-0 win over Southampton in 1972.
Six different scorers in Brenden Aaronson, Manor Solomon, Dan James, Wilfried Gnonto, Mateo Joseph and Joel Piroe – the latter scoring twice. Leeds have so many players that are currently in excellent form.
But Dan James might well be in the form of his life. Last season, he had a hand in 21 goals in 46 games but this time around, his strike rate has improved further – a whopping 14 goals and assists in 25 games.
Simon Grayson says what he hears Dan James does behind scenes
The former Swansea star will have enjoyed Saturday’s win over Cardiff, not least because he had a hand in three goals. A goal and two assists, with James’ work rate being praised highly over the last 18 months.
Speaking on BBC Radio Leeds after James’ dazzling performance, former Leeds manager Grayson says he has heard that James is working incredibly hard behind the scenes to get better and better on a Saturday.
“I’m led to believe he works so hard in training, constant threat. I like how he mixes his game up, he runs behind or gets it to his feet. He gets into the box, he’s playing with confidence. Long may it continue.”
Is Dan James the Championship’s best player at the moment?
Manor Solomon might have something to say about that, but since the turn of the year – £25m James has started six Championship games and had a hand in six goals. Three goals and then three assists.
Only two players have numbers of eight involvements since December 21 and they are both Solomon and James. The duo are on fire, keeping players like Wilfried Gnonto and Largie Ramazani out of the line-up.
If Leeds are going to go and get promoted, then they need James and Solomon to continue their superb form. Saturday was an easy win, but Wednesday night will be a lot tougher as Leeds go to Coventry.
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