For one Leeds United player, the second half of the 2023-24 campaign has seen him endure more disappointment than his fair share and his National Team manager has commented.
Every Leeds player will have been distraught come the full-time whistle at Wembley in the play-off final after defeat to Southampton. But for Dan James, it was just another heartbreak after earlier dismay.
It was James that missed the crucial spot-kick in the penalty shootout against Poland in the Euro 2024 play-off. The two sides had played out a 0-0 draw in Cardiff after 120 minutes, going into penalties.
James missed his and Wales’ dreams of reaching Euro 2024 were dashed, with the Leeds star seeing his effort saved by former Arsenal man Wojciech Szczesny and from that point in things did not get better.
Injury at Leeds saw him lose his starting spot to Willy Gnonto, and then James saw an effort crash off the bar in the last 10 minutes at Wembley. An equaliser and possible promotion, a couple of inches away.
In the meantime, James has become a Father for a second time and Wales boss Page said he has spoken to the pocket-sized speed machine behind the scenes, stating that he feels James is in a good place.
Rob Page has spoken to Leeds star Dan James behind the scenes
It has been a testing period for James but the Wales ace must remember that he has arguably enjoyed his best season, in terms of stats. The winger ended with 20 goals and assists for the 2023-24 campaign.
The chances are that James will be first choice for Leeds next season, with duo Crysencio Summerville and Willy Gnonto expected to leave Elland Road at some point during the summer window. Page said:
“We’ve had conversations since the Poland game. He’s got a good support network around him and will be all right. It’s not a pleasant experience, but he’s shown he’s okay. Got no issues with him at all.”
James might not even be at Leeds come next season
That is according to former Leeds man Jon Newsome, who suggested immediately after the defeat to Southampton the former Swansea star could end up on the south coast come the start of next season.
There is no doubt that Leeds only posed a threat to Southampton when Farke introduced the winger in the final last month, and alongside hitting the bar, James got a nasty cut to his head during his cameo.
Hopefully for Leeds fans, James is at his best and raring to go in a Leeds shirt next season. But there is sure to be interest in the Wales star before the start of next season and Leeds do needs to sell players.