Leeds United return to action following the final international break of the season, with the first of their remaining eight Championship fixtures just two days away as they prepare to host Swansea City.
The international break was a productive one for Leeds’ 16 representatives, with six players—Dan James, Mateo Joseph, Rasmus Kristensen, Sam Chambers, Diogo Monteiro, and Junior Firpo—finding the net for their respective nations. Meanwhile, Ao Tanaka helped Japan become the first team to qualify for the 2026 World Cup, and Isaac Schmidt earned his first international caps for Switzerland. Wales also remained unbeaten under Craig Bellamy, securing a victory and a late draw.
Leeds’ Welsh contingent of Karl Darlow, Joe Rodon, and James all started both of Wales’ matches, contributing to a 3-1 win over Kazakhstan and a 1-1 draw against North Macedonia on Tuesday night.
No Surprise as Joe Rodon Names Leeds’ Fastest Player
For the first time in years, Leeds boast a squad filled with genuine pace. Manor Solomon, Brenden Aaronson, Willy Gnonto, and Largie Ramazani all possess impressive speed. However, when it comes to the fastest player at the club, there is little debate.
In a video posted by the club, Rodon, James, Aaronson, and Ethan Ampadu answered quickfire questions about their teammates. When asked who is the quickest at tracking back defensively, Rodon initially joked about picking himself before settling on the obvious choice—winger Dan James. He admitted, “That’s my thing. Nah, DJ’s probably the quickest.”
Dan James Could Be Key Against Swansea
With Sheffield United and Burnley piling on the pressure, Leeds must make a strong start to this crucial run-in as they push for automatic promotion. James could be a decisive factor in their clash with Swansea.
Beyond the motivation of facing his former club, James has a strong record against Swansea. In his three appearances against them, he has delivered two starts, three goals, and an assist—proving to be a constant threat.
Meanwhile, Swansea recently confirmed that Alan Sheehan will continue as interim manager until the end of the season. While he has collected seven points from his five matches in charge, the Swans went into the international break on the back of consecutive defeats.
