Farke Faces Tough Choice: Drop £45k-a-Week Leeds Flop to Unleash Dan James’ Explosive Potential?
Today could be the day Leeds United secures their promotion back to the Premier League, as they face Stoke City at Elland Road. With a win and a Sheffield United loss, the Whites will seal their return to the top flight. After their 1-0 victory over Oxford, manager Daniel Farke may look to freshen up his lineup, particularly after a short recovery period. One key change should be the inclusion of Dan James, who has been a standout performer this season.
James, named a finalist for Championship Player of the Season, has been crucial in the final third with 12 goals, 16 ‘big chances’ created, and 9 assists in 30 starts. To give Leeds the best chance of success in such a critical match, Farke must bring James back into the starting lineup. This means dropping Brenden Aaronson, who has struggled with form, having contributed just two goals and no assists in his last 19 appearances. With James in the starting XI, Leeds’ attack would feature a dynamic trio of James, Gnonto, and Manor Solomon, giving them the edge they need to secure promotion.