Tributes paid to former Wales, Burnley and Swansea winger Leighton James

Leighton James, who used to play as a winger for Wales, has passed away at the age of 71.

James had a diverse 19-year senior career, during which he played for Burnley and Swansea clubs for 13 years. Both of his former clubs expressed their respect for him as a talented player who earned 54 caps while playing for his country.

"It is with great sadness that we have received the news of Leighton's demise," expressed Alan Pace, the Burnley chairman. Leighton James had been associated with Turf Moor thrice and had scored 81 goals in 399 games for the Clarets. His playing skills have left an unforgettable impact on the football club, and his notable tales still resound within the walls of Turf Moor. Our condolences go out to his family during this difficult time."

James, who hails from Swansea, started playing for Burnley in 1970 and impressed fans with his speed and skills. He later moved to Derby for a then-record fee of £310,000 and also spent a season with QPR. After returning to Burnley in 1978, James eventually joined his home team two years later. His contribution to the team, under the guidance of John Toshack, helped elevate them to the old First Division.

The club statement expressed great sadness over the news of Leighton James' passing. He was a talented winger and considered one of Swansea City's best players. He played a crucial role in the team's promotion to the top-flight in 1981 and scored a remarkable goal in the game against Preston at Deepdale, which led to the club's rise.

Afterwards, he became the leading figure of the campaign under John Toshack's leadership, which aimed to compete against the top-tier of English football teams. In the end, the team achieved sixth place in the First Division. Swansea City deeply sympathizes with Leighton's loved ones during this difficult moment.

Following his three-year stint at Swansea, James proceeded to pursue his football career with Sunderland, Bury, and Newport County. Eventually, he completed a full circle by returning for his third time with Burnley.

James scored 10 goals internationally and one of them was a penalty that won the match against England during the 1976-77 British Home Championship. This win is the only one that Wales has ever had against their neighboring country at Wembley.

On X, the Football Association of Wales made an announcement about the passing of Leighton James. He was a well-known football player who had an impressive moment when he scored a penalty during a significant victory over England at Wembley in 1977. He was a prominent member of the only Cymru team that managed to top a qualifying group. This accomplishment led them to the quarter-finals of Euro 1976. It is with heavy hearts that we share this sad news.

After his retirement as a player, James took up various coaching roles in the southern part of Wales. He also worked in the media, where his candid opinions and writing style garnered him a strong following. Burnley and Swansea football clubs have recently announced that their players will wear black armbands in upcoming matches against Sheffield United and Huddersfield to honor James's memory.