Leeds United failed to get a win against Brentford ahead of the international break. It was a huge chance for Daniel Farke’s men to get an advantage going into their last games in the run in.
It was a very frustrating match at Elland Road against Keith Andrews’ men. The away side did not look to try and win the game, and were very much comfortable sitting back and waiting for the result. Brentford’s game plan was clear from the onset, they sat back and let Leeds United have the ball. When the momentum was building, goalkeeper Caomhin Kelleher went down with an injury for his side to have a tactical break. Adam Pope slammed Keith Andrews and his men for doing that in the match.
Ethan Ampadu shares thoughts on Leeds United teammate this season
Going into the second half, the game was very stale and needed an injection of quality in attack. Farke called on Noah Okafor and Dan James from the bench. The duo tried their best, but they could not really help break down the defence. James looked bright in what looked like one of his better games this season; unfortunately the game ended in a draw.
Ethan Ampadu has been speaking on international duty in Wales about how important Dan James is to the team.
“It’s been frustrating to see, for him. But when he’s been back and now, he’s flying in training. He’s doing really well. He’ll just want to get minutes under his belt and show everyone what we know he can do.”
Injuries have consistently disrupted the winger this season, and he has barely gotten a run of games. The Welshman has missed most of the campaign, and has only featured in cameos.
Dan James has been a huge miss this season
Daniel Farke would have absolutely loved to have had James available for the whole season. The winger has played just 504 minutes this season and has only made 17 appearances. Last season in the Championship, James was one of the club’s best players in attack as he had 21 goal involvements. His absence this season will raise questions about why Farke chose to let Largie Ramazani go online, and kept Harrison around. Now, the club only has two wingers available in Okafor and Gnonto and the team has seriously lacked a wide threat throughout this campaign. Fans will wish Dan James will be fit enough for the final stretch of games, as he could be a very valuable asset.
| Statistic | 2024/25 (Last Season) | 2025/26 (This Season) |
|---|---|---|
| Games Played | 37 | 17 |
| Starts | 30 | 5 |
| Minutes Played | 2,706′ | 504′ |
| Goals | 12 | 0 |
| Assists | 9 | 0 |
