Former Premier League striker Kevin Phillips thinks Daniel James’ transfer to Leeds United from Manchester United has “backfired”.
The Welsh winger has not hit his top form so far for Marcelo Bielsa’s side and they sit just five points clear of the relegation zone.
Leeds, who already have a number of players absent due to injury, saw James added to the injury list last week during their 7-0 loss to Man City.
Phillips reckons the £25m they spent on James (via Eurosport) would’ve been better used on improving other areas of the squad, with questioned asked of the team’s defence after conceding 14 goals in their last three Premier League matches.
“I’ve said that all along,” Phillips told Football Insider. “I don’t think that was an area which needed strengthening. You’ve got Jack Harrison and Raphinha, two quality players – as well as others who can fill in.
“I thought it would backfire if they didn’t bring in that other recognised goalscorer – and it has. He’s played Dan James down the middle, but he’s never a striker in a million years.
“It’s just papering over the cracks at the moment. Adam Forshaw and Stuart Dallas are hardly setting the world alight as well in midfield.
“They should have used that money to go and get a quality striker who could have challenged Bamford or come in when he’s out the team. That would have given them a real chance of staying in this league.”
To make matters worse for the sheep, Bielsa has only managed one win for their eight previous fixtures so it is no wonder that they are headed towards a relegation fight.
I would love to see Leeds United suffer relegation again – even if I had a soft spot for James during his time at Old Trafford.
