‘Outstanding,’ comments Dom Matteo of Leeds when the 25-year-old starts.

Dan James is playing some of the best football of his career at the moment and Dominic Matteo has told LUTV’s Matchday Preview that Leeds United look “more balanced” when he is in Daniel Farke’s side.

James, 25, already has 10 goals and assists for club and country in 15 games – despite only starting 11 of those matches. On Saturday, he took his tally to three goals, netting a brace against Huddersfield.

The winger has been in electric form and that is kind of performance that has made him first choice this term, ahead of Willy Gnonto and Jaidon Anthony. He and Cree Summerville are starting for us out wide.

Leeds travel to Leicester on Friday, a huge game that sees first place take on third at the King Power. James is nailed on to start the game with Farke likely to name an unchanged Leeds side against them.

Speaking ahead of the game, ex-Leeds skipper Matteo said Leeds look “more balanced” with former Manchester United man James in the side as he continues to shine. He praised the winger’s finishing.

“We look more balanced when he plays. His finishing is absolutely outstanding. Maybe, Farke has been giving him advice. David O’Leary used to give strikers information; don’t be scared to take those shots.”

Dominic Matteo: Leeds more balanced when Dan James plays

James has probably surprised many with his form this season. Goals, assists, and contributing to play. To have kept Gnonto out of the side at this point, is impressive enough. But he needs to keep going.

Against a Leicester side that at the King Power, are likely to keep the ball, speed on the counter attack will be crucial. It looks like it will be a game that suits James to a tee. It could be perfect for the winger.