Daniel Farke has declared that Daniel James' goalscoring display was the second most significant aspect of Leeds United's League Cup victory over Nottingham Forest, surpassed only by the result itself.
Welshman James had gone without a goal since April 2025 and endured a torrid run of injury misfortune throughout the previous campaign, sitting out 18 matches due to a string of setbacks.
Selection struggles and a new role
Farke also revealed how Leeds had failed to find the net in the Premier League whenever James featured on the pitch during the entirety of last season. This affected his standing in the selection pecking order, as did the switch to a wing-back system last November, which raised doubts about where he would fit into the side.
On Tuesday, Farke confirmed he had deployed James in a hybrid wing-back role — and the gamble paid off.
Manager's delight and confidence boost
Farke has consistently spoken warmly of James' dedication and professionalism, and was thrilled to award him a new long-term deal last summer, reports Leeds Live. Things have not gone entirely to plan since then, but the manager is overjoyed that James was able to enjoy his moment in the sun this week.
"Yes, it would be possible to speak a lot about his situation," Farke said. "First and foremost, I'm so unbelievably happy for Daniel James because he's a brilliant player and an even better human being."
"It was such a tough last season with many, many injuries. We had the topic that we had not scored a goal [in Premier League] once he was on the pitch last season, and it's like he knew this. He was not the only one to blame for it, but that was a reality, you know. And he himself has not scored a goal in ages."
Grab chances with both hands
"How important it is for him to stay fit and sharp, and also his confidence, he has proven today because he had a really good pre-season and looked sharp in the games, no injuries, could work hard, could bring his body in a really good position."
"Of course, after such a year when you know the team has never scored a goal when you are on the pitch, it's realistic to say the chances don't come around that often anymore. If they come around, you have to grab them with both hands. This is what he did today."
"I think he was excellent. We tried to play him today in a role that's probably not invented so far, because he was not a winger, he wasn't a wing-back, he was something in between. But against the ball and also in possession, excellent, a very good all-round game, and I'm so happy."
"This will be a big boost for his confidence, for his rhythm, and so so delighted for him. This was one of the most important things today, next to going through into the next round."
