Jansson starts

A party

PONTUS JANSSON says Leeds believe this is their year – and that feeling is growing after they found their old swagger to regain top spot.

They had too much energy, movement and dynamism for Swansea, who converted a late penalty to give the scoreline a flattering look.

Leeds took advantage of Norwich’s shock defeat at Preston to depose them as leaders – and their fans are getting a strong feeling that their 15-year exile from the Premier League is finally about to end.

It was an unhappy return to Elland Road for Daniel James, 13 days after he spent deadline day evening here forlornly waiting for the call from Swansea that his loan move had gone through.

Leeds remain keen on the Yorkshire-born winger, who passed a medical and agreed terms, and their fans chanted “Daniel James wants to be Leeds” before applauding him when he was subbed.

The home fans also sang Jansson’s name when he gave them the lead on 20 minutes to make his 28th birthday go with a bang.

Patrick Bamford’s header from Pablo Hernandez’s corner was half cleared to Ezgjan Alioski, whose deflected shot was swept home in predatory fashion by the Swede.

Leeds survived a couple of scares when Mike van der Hoorn narrowly failed to turn home Barrie McKay’s ball across the goalmouth and Connor Roberts had a shot saved, before doubling their lead in the 34th minute.

Alioski was again involved as his floated cross to the near post was headed home by Jack Harrison.

Although Leeds dominated possession and territory, Swansea had their moments and former Whites loanee Matt Grimes hit a 20-yard free-kick that was deflected wide.

These were isolated threats and Jansson, Kemar Roofe and Bamford all went close to a third.

Swansea pulled one back with three minutes left as Luke Ayling fouled Joel Asoro and Oli McBurnie scored from the penalty spot.