Welsh football mourns the loss of a legendary player and influential pundit
Leighton James, the former Wales winger who made significant contributions to Burnley, Swansea, and Derby County, has passed away at the age of 71.
Capped 54 times by Wales, James played 399 games for Burnley across three spells and also spent two years at Derby County. His extensive playing career also included stints at Swansea City, Sunderland, Bury, and Newport County.
Burnley and Swansea expressed their sadness at James’ passing. Clarets chairman Alan Pace described James as leaving “an indelible mark” on the club, while Swansea noted that he was “widely-regarded as one of the Swans’ finest players.”
Born on February 16, 1953, in Loughor, Swansea, James began his professional career with Burnley in 1970, making his league debut against Nottingham Forest. He later joined Derby County and Queens Park Rangers before returning to Burnley. A move to Swansea City followed, where he played a key role in the club’s promotion to the top flight.
James’ club career also included spells at Sunderland, Bury, and Newport County, with a third stint at Burnley before retiring in 1989.
Known for his attacking prowess as a left winger, James thrilled fans with his performances for both club and country. He scored 10 goals for Wales, including a famous penalty that secured a victory over England at Wembley in the British Home Championships.
After retiring from playing, James remained involved in football as a media pundit and manager of various non-league clubs in England and Wales.
James’ outspoken views and passionate commentary made him a well-known figure in Welsh football circles. He famously clashed with Robbie Savage on-air over Savage’s retirement from international football in 2006.
In addition to his football career, James worked as a lollipop man at Penyrheol Primary School in Swansea until he suffered a stroke in 2014.
Both Swansea and Burnley’s players will wear black armbands to pay respects to James during their matches on Saturday, 20 April.
