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Sports · Soccer · published 2026-08-26 · via The Athletic

James ends 504-day goal drought as Leeds advance in cup

Dan James scored his first goal for Leeds United in 504 days during a 2-0 Carabao Cup win at Nottingham Forest. The Wales international played only 559 league minutes last season due to injuries, and Leeds failed to score in any league match while he was on the pitch. Manager Daniel Farke praised James's fitness and sharpness after a strong pre-season, calling the goal a boost for his confidence.

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James's previous goal came in April 2025 at Middlesbrough, during a season where he contributed to 21 league goals and earned a spot on the Championship Player of the Season shortlist. He signed a new four-year contract that July, but last season he managed only 559 league minutes due to a series of injuries, including a hamstring problem that sidelined him through December and January. He did not start again until a dead rubber at Tottenham in May.

Wales's failure to qualify for the World Cup gave James a full summer break, allowing him to return for pre-season from day one. He avoided injury, played key roles in friendlies, and was deployed as a left

Expanded detail and Context are AI-generated analysis; the linked article remains the authoritative source.
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This summary is Al-enhanced to contain extended analysis and broader social context. The original is {NAME); the linked article is the authoritative source. Original headline: “Dan James struggled with injury and a role for Leeds last season. This was a step forward.” Browse more stories.