Re: Jordan James

Formerly Deckchair

I know the OP isn't trying to be overly critical, and perhaps I am a bit too optimistic, but I think bar Hall, he's our best young player by a distance. His skillset is quite diverse meaning that he can (and has played in a number of positions), which I think has perhaps been to his detriment to an extent. Jobe can only play #10, Hall can play #10, wide or wider of a 3. JJ has played holding mid, #10, wide right and either side in a 3.

I think one of the indicators of a young player likely to become a top player is their positioning and reading of the game off the ball. See Lingard when he was on loan at us. His positional sense and awareness off the ball was ridiculous. For me, JJ absolutely has that. For instance, compare him to Hannibal. Hannibal's technicaly ability is better than James but there's a reason he isn't trusted at the base of midfield, even in a 2. He's not disciplined enough. JJ has played at the base of midfield on his own (not his natural position).


Young players will be inconsistent, that's part of learning but I thought he was our best player against Blackpool and has done well when he's played this season.

IMO he'll be at least a very good Championship player once he develops.