Former Premier League striker Kevin Phillips believes that Daniel James' move from Manchester United to Leeds has backfired.
The ex-Sunderland talisman says Marcelo Bielsa got his priorities are wrong as a striker should've been their priority.
James departed Old Trafford on deadline day, moving to West Yorkshire for £25million after failing to find a permanent role in the Reds' starting XI.
However, he continues to feature in a struggling Whites side who are decimated by injuries as they struggle for form after losing their last two against Manchester City and Arsenal with an aggregate score of 11-1.
The 24-year-old spent two years at United and made 50 league appearances, scoring just six goals after arriving from Swansea City for £15m.
Youngster Joe Gelhardt has been integrated into the starting line-up as Rodrigo struggles with a heel injury but the weakness in the striking area is a department the former professional believes should've been prioritised over the deal with the Reds.
“I’ve said that all along," Phillips told Football Insider.
“I don’t think that was an area which needed strengthening. You’ve got Jack Harrison and Raphinha, two quality players – as well as others who can fill in.
“I thought it would backfire if they didn’t bring in that other recognised goalscorer – and it has. He’s played Dan James down the middle, but he’s never a striker in a million years.
“It’s just papering over the cracks at the moment. Adam Forshaw and Stuart Dallas are hardly setting the world alight as well in midfield.
“They should have used that money to go and get a quality striker who could have challenged Bamford or come in when he’s out the team. That would have given them a real chance of staying in this league.”
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