Daniel Farke must end Leeds player experiment, 13% and 0.16 stats show why

Daniel Farke has to stop playing Daniel James as a wing-back after his disastrous performance in Leeds United’s 6-3 defeat to Chelsea on Wednesday.

So far this season, the manager has been experimenting with the Wales international and has attempted to integrate him as his new right wing-back.

Initially, this saw some success as the 28-year-old netted in their 2-0 victory against Nottingham Forest last month.

However, this type of performance has not been replicated since, and James’ display against Chelsea was nothing short of a disaster.

The wide man could not defend at all, and struggled to have any influence in attack.

As a result, Leeds just cannot risk such a performance again, and Farke must put an end to the experiment.

How bad was Daniel James vs Chelsea?

James’ stats against Chelsea were nothing short of appalling.

According to Fotmob on 10 September, he conceded one penalty, completed 58 per cent of his passes, created one chance, had an xA of 0.16, failed to complete any of his three attempted dribbles, was dispossessed twice, committed two fouls and only won one of his eight ground duels.

Therefore, it is of little surprise that Farke hauled him off the pitch after 66 minutes following such a display.

Now, this should be the final nail in the coffin for the experiment, with James’ attacking qualities being wasted, whereas defensively he is simply incapable against top opponents.

Were Leeds unlucky to lose to Chelsea?

Overall, Leeds can count themselves unlucky to have lost to Chelsea on Wednesday.

Farke’s side had 51 per cent possession, 18 shots, six of which were on target, 36 touches in the opposition box, a 2.42 xG and four big chances.

In comparison, Chelsea had 49 per cent possession, 16 shots, eight of which were on target, 22 touches in the opposition box, a 2.40 xG and five big chances.

Therefore, the scoreline was no doubt harsh on Leeds, and on another day, they could easily have taken the game to penalties.

However, it remains to be seen if the Peacocks can quickly bounce back from this defeat as they prepare to face Newcastle United on Monday.