IT’S A HOL NEW BALL GAME

James was on a break in Marbella when Wales stormed Euro 2016... but he’s hoping for even better this summer

DAN JAMES hit new heights as he leapt to score his firstever senior headed goal.

His impressive late winner for Wales on Tuesday against the Czech Republic underlined the Manchester United wideman’s return to form. And James (left) insists there should be no glass ceiling either for Wales this summer.

He was an 18-year-old on holiday in Marbella when Wales reached the semi-finals of Euro 2016. Wales are back at the Euros this summer and belief is growing after four wins in five games, that maybe they could end the country’s 63-year wait for World Cup qualification.

Wales’ resurgence reflects James’ own development after bursting on to the scene at United in style in 2019 and recently hitting some of his best form.

Asked if he thought Wales could repeat their 2016 success, he said: “I don’t see why not? I watched the last

Euros on holiday in Marbella and it was unbelievable. I just wanted to be a part of that. Back then, I never thought I would be.

“We are all looking forward to it. The games this week have been all about the World Cup qualifiers but they are big games going into the Euros this summer.

“We have nothing to lose. We have shown we can compete against the best teams and we just have to keep performing.

“We have strength in depth and players who can come in and do just as well. Everyone in the squad has played a part throughout the campaign and the last 10 days have been unbelievable.”

Victory against Tomas Soucek and Co made it four wins in six games since caretaker Rob Page took over from Ryan Giggs. The Manchester United legend is on police bail until May and waiting to learn if he faces charges.

But Page has shown plenty of qualities as figurehead if necessary for the Euros.

Wales bounced back from their World Cup qualifier loss to Belgium despite missing the influential injured quartet of Aaron Ramsey, Joe Allen, Ben Davies and David Brooks. James has backed Page to carry on leading the team if Giggs is unavailable.

“Yes, definitely,” replied James, who has four goals in 19 caps for Wales. “He’s been unbelievable as you have seen. He’s been such a big part of before when the gaffer has been here. But he’s taken on the role well. He gets the points across to us so well. He’s been great and that shows in the game.”

James was teed up by skipper Bale who has had a hand in 14 goals in his last 19 starts for Wales, including an assist in each of his last four appearances.

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