Leeds United have received a timely boost over the fitness of Wales international Dan James as he looks set to return ahead of schedule.
Dan James was the subject of a wave of speculation over his fitness after rumours suggested that the Leeds winger had suffered a serious injury.
Thankfully for Leeds boss Daniel Farke, the pacey Wales international avoided major ligament damage, with James expected to miss around six weeks of the season.
Leeds have a mini-injury crisis in the wide positions, with Noah Okafor doubtful for the game against Burnley and Willy Gnonto also ruled out after requiring a hernia operation during the international break.
Now, Yorkshire Evening Post journalist Graham Smyth has confirmed that James is ahead of schedule in his recovery, in a boost to Farke.
Photo by James Gill – Danehouse/Getty ImagesGraham Smyth confirmed Dan James injury boost
Speaking on the Inside Elland Road podcast, Smyth echoed Farke’s update from his press conference regarding James.
According to Smyth, James is now back in training with the Leeds first-team and, although he is not in contention for the crucial game against Burnley, Smyth said: “Dan James, though, the news is good.
“So, back when it happened, we were told by our sources inside and outside the club that they were really hopeful of six weeks and a conservative treatment plan, no surgery.
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“He’s already back and played parts in team training. He’s not in contention to start, but he is in contention to come off the bench.”
This follows Farke admitting he expects James to return ahead of schedule, as he stated: “Very positive and good news with Daniel James, because he’s a bit ahead of schedule in his rehab.
“So, compliments also to our medical department, our rehab coaches. He was even involved already, I would say, in major parts of team training during this week.”
Photo by Visionhaus/Getty ImagesWales international pictured in Leeds United training
Smyth’s update is backed by James being seen in Leeds training ahead of the trip to Turf Moor, after the club shared their inside training video.
Three talented Leeds youngsters are pictured training alongside James, who is involved in both the warm-up and the subsequent passing drills as the Whites prepare for their crucial Premier League encounter.
In a welcome boost for Leeds fans, James can also be seen taking part in the small-sided squad game, which suggests that he is building towards his return to the Leeds first team.
Brazilian goalkeeper Lucas Perri is also featured in the video, after Farke confirmed he would stick with Karl Darlow for the game against Burnley.