Leicester City midfielder Jordan James has voiced his desire to achieve “big, big things” in football after being crowned the Championship Young Player of the Season. The 21-year-old received the prestigious award at the EFL ceremony on Sunday night, beating out talented nominees Bobby Clark, Ashley Phillips, and Sydie Peck.
Currently on loan from French side Rennes, James has emerged as a rare highlight in what has been a disastrous season for the Foxes. While injury struggles throughout 2026 limited his impact on the pitch, he still managed to record ten goals across 31 appearances. Despite his individual success, the Wales international acknowledged that the club’s likely relegation makes the achievement feel bittersweet.
A Career Revived in the Midlands
Reflecting on his journey, James expressed gratitude toward Leicester for providing a platform to rediscover his form. After a challenging stint in Ligue 1 following his move from Birmingham City, the midfielder has flourished back in the English second tier. He noted that he has reached performance levels he didn’t think possible at the start of the campaign.
With two years remaining on his contract with Rennes, a permanent move to the King Power Stadium appears unlikely. Leicester’s impending slide into the third tier of English football creates a significant financial and sporting barrier to keeping their star loanee.
Further Success for Leicester’s Youth
Despite the senior team’s struggles, the academy continues to produce promising talent. The EFL awards ceremony recognized other Leicester-affiliated players for their contributions this season:
- Louis Page: The 17-year-old was named the EFL Championship Apprentice of the Season. Since his debut in August, the academy product has featured 16 times for the senior squad.
- Sammy Braybrooke: The City graduate earned a spot in the League Two Team of the Season. His inclusion follows impressive loan spells with both Newport County and Chesterfield.