James Justin is yet to start a Premier League game for Leeds United, but has looked very solid and reliable when coming off the bench.
During the summer, Leeds had to revamp their full-back options following Junior Firpo’s farewell and Isaac Schmidt’s inevitable departure.
A versatile option was required that could cover both the left and right side of the back four. Leicester City’s James Justin seemed a very obvious transfer and after a brief hiccup, was completed.
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James Justin puts in commanding display as Leeds United beat West Ham
Jarrod Bowen may have got a consolation assist for 2-1 a week ago as Leeds beat West Ham, but he was kept quiet for the vast majority of the game.
Justin’s contribution to the result deserves plenty of recognition, as he was thrown in during the first half when Gabriel Gudmundsson couldn’t continue after a blow to his back.
|James Justin v West Ham|
|---|---|
|Minutes played|46|
|Touches|43|
|Pass success|18/21 (86%)|
|Duels (won)|7 (2)|
|Tackles|1|
|Interceptions|3|
|Clearances|4|
|Recoveries|9|
Signed for £8million rising to £10million with add-ons, Leicester City fans were keen to point out their delight at Leeds agreeing such a sum. Justin had suffered an ongoing drop-off in form ever since a long-term injury 20/21, and Foxes reaction to the transfer was of delight, despite their relegation.
James Justin enjoyed a strong sub appearance for Leeds United v West Ham. (Action Images via Reuters/Lee Smith)
Daniel Farke issues strong praise for James Justin after solid Leeds United outing
It can’t be easy not only being thrown into a must-win game against one of the best wingers in the league, but also being seen as someone who covers both sides of the back four.
Justin’s versatility means he’s a vital asset to the squad, even if he’s currently a backup to Jayden Bogle and Gudmundsson.
When discussing Gudmundsson’s knock that forced him off, Farke confirmed that he’s fit to face Brighton. But, he also stressed the importance of Justin’s performance too.
“Also proved in the last game why we so desperate to sign James Justin, a proven Premier League player,” Farke said in his pre-match press conference. “To come into this game without a warm-up, and to defend a guy like Jarrod Bowen.
“Justin never knows if he comes in on the left or right, he can play both positions, he’s pretty versatile, so important for us.
“He’s put his mark down and shown he is capable of playing absolutely solid at this level. I loved how mature he was, you couldn’t see anything dropping in our standards. James proved a lot why we were so desperate to sign him, top character and top player for us.”
James Justin proving Daniel Farke right and Leicester City fans wrong after damning reaction
When the deal was being pushed through, there was plenty of reaction and clips being pulled up from Leicester fans about Justin.
He, like many at Leicester, didn’t give a good account of himself at all as they were relegated. That doesn’t mean he’s not a Premier League level player in the right setup.
His role is different here. He’s ultimately solid cover on both sides of the back four, and someone that we don’t really have to rely on as first choice week in, week out.
That sort of role could bring the best out of him. Farke’s praise of him says a lot here not only about his performance levels, but also his character in the dressing room.
Read more: Leeds United predicted XI to face Brighton revealed.