Sheffield Wednesday have handed a familiar face a run-out in their pre-season preparations after naming former Rotherham United left-back Reece James in the starting XI for a friendly against Accrington Stanley.
From the New York Stadium to Hillsborough for a trial run
James, 32, left Rotherham United when his contract at the New York Stadium expired following the Millers’ relegation to League Two. The defender has since been training with Sheffield Wednesday this week and has now been selected to start against League Two opposition.
The appearance will be his first for Wednesday since leaving the club at the end of the 2023/24 season. James previously made 45 appearances across two spells at Hillsborough, having originally joined on loan from Blackpool before the move was made permanent during the Owls’ promotion campaign from League One in 2023.
Versatility and experience
Over a lengthy career James has become known for his adaptability. A product of Manchester United’s academy, his résumé includes spells at Doncaster Rovers, Huddersfield Town and Sunderland. He can operate at left-back, further forward on the flank and even as a defensive midfielder — attributes that would be attractive to clubs managing compact squads in the lower divisions.
“He has got a lovely left foot on him and gives us that balance on the left‑hand side. He has been superb. He is someone that I worked with at Doncaster. He has got wonderful versatility.”
The observation above came from a former Wednesday manager in 2022, underlining the reputation James carries from previous coaching staff.
- Age: 32
- Sheffield Wednesday appearances: 45 (across two spells)
- Recent club: Rotherham United (contract expired)
| Club mentioned | Role/Note |
|---|---|
| Sheffield Wednesday | Two spells; 45 appearances |
| Rotherham United | Most recent club; contract expired |
| Others (Doncaster, Huddersfield, Sunderland) | Previous clubs during career |
What this means for local clubs
For Rotherham supporters the news will be watched with interest. While James’ selection at Hillsborough does not itself confirm a signing, it does reopen questions about the defender’s next destination. He was recently on trial at Bradford City, and his inclusion in Wednesday’s XI is not listed as a trialist appearance, which could indicate a fitness run rather than a direct attempt to secure a new contract. Nevertheless, should he impress manager Henrik Pedersen, a return to the Owls cannot be ruled out.
Local followers of the game will want to see how James performs in the friendly; his experience — approaching 400 career appearances — means he could offer immediate cover and leadership wherever he ends up playing this season.
Coverage will continue as clubs confirm contracts or additional pre-season fixtures.
