Leeds United
Leeds United boss Daniel Farke was criticized at the start of the season for how he picked the lineup. In the first few months, it looked like he had made his mind up about some players.
The fanbase were confused about why a handful of the summer signings were sat on the bench when the team were performing poorly. But it looks like since the end of last year, things have significantly changed and Farke has learned how to use his squad. Injuries and form did play a part, but the Leeds boss relied on some of these players heavily during the fixtures late last year.
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Gary Lineker pleased for Leeds United star this season
James Justin was one of these players, fans went from asking why he was signed, to praising him this past few weeks. His performances have seen him earn a role in the first team, and Gary Lineker has spoken on the former Leicester man. The former Premier League star said he is pleased that Justin has recovered from his injury setback years ago and is showing his quality:
“You mentioned James Justin, obviously, I watched him a lot when he was a Leicester player, and I had a chat with Gareth Southgate a few years ago, and he had two very serious injuries, James Justin and one of them was not long before the World Cup, I think, four years ago.” Lineker said on the Rest is Football podcast.
“And he was absolutely brilliant that season, and I said to Gareth, James Justin must’ve been close, he said, ‘he would’ve been in my England squad but for his injuries because he played so well.’
“So I’m really pleased to see that he’s getting a return to the form I saw a lot at Leicester… so I think that’s good to see.”
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James Justin has been a great signing
The defender has been a solid addition to the team, and has now even become a part of the starting lineup. Initially brought in as cover for Jayden Bogle, he has played in a variety of roles including center back. And in recent weeks, Farke has preferred to play him there over natural center backs. He has performed well in a role which has seen him operate in a completely different part of the pitch.
Updated: February 23, 2026 | Leicester City (2025/26 Season)
Justin is among some summer signings who had to prove themselves before Daniel Farke trusted them in the first team. Jaka Bijol is also another; his start to life in England was poor, but is now a rock at the back. The emergence of all these players has boosted the squad depth, with Farke knowing that he can call on anyone on the bench and they can perform to a high standard.