Daniel James has urged Leeds United to build on their unbeaten start to the Premier League season after returning from a productive international break with Wales.
The 28-year-old scored his 11th international goal on his 68th appearance as Wales came from behind to beat Norway 2-1, while he featured three times during the break.
James now returns to a Leeds side sitting fifth after collecting nine points from their opening five league matches under Daniel Farke.
“We have set really a high standard and it is about progressing now in these next five games before the next internationals,” James told LUTV.
“We have got tough games coming up but we really believe in ourselves that we can go into every game and perform.”
James wants Leeds to learn from last season
Leeds finished the previous campaign strongly, but James believes their slower start ultimately prevented them from climbing higher.
“Obviously, from December onwards we were absolutely brilliant,” he said. “But it was really that first start of the season that stopped us from getting any higher in the table.”
The early signs this time are more encouraging. Leeds are one of five Premier League teams yet to lose and have conceded the joint-fewest goals.
James, however, insists nobody inside the squad should become carried away.
“It is a long season. We have started well and I think it is easy to get carried away,” he said.
“You can’t underestimate anyone in this league. Anyone can beat anyone.”
Arsenal provide major test for unbeaten Leeds
That belief will be tested when Leeds visit reigning champions Arsenal on Saturday.
James acknowledged Leeds' poor recent record against the Gunners but believes Farke's side are capable of changing it if they perform at their maximum.
“They are a great team. It is going to be a really, really tough game but we all know that as players, it is up to us to go and perform on the day,” he said.
“The belief is definitely there. In this league, anyone can beat anyone on the day.”
A positive result at the Emirates would provide another indication of how far Leeds have progressed following their strong opening five matches.
Key Points
- Leeds are unbeaten after five Premier League games, collecting nine points to sit fifth.
- Daniel James scored his 11th Wales goal during the international break.
- James says Leeds must avoid complacency and build on their strong start.
- The winger believes lessons have been learned from last season's slower opening.
- Leeds face reigning champions Arsenal at the Emirates next.
What’s Next?
Leeds now turn their attention to Saturday's trip to Arsenal, where their unbeaten record faces its biggest test of the season so far.
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