Wales coach Robert Page has rejected criticism of Leeds winger Daniel James.

James' pace was a formidable weapon in the World Cup play-off win over Austria on Thursday, his importance to Wales underlined by him making his 27th consecutive start in competitive internationals since the first against Slovakia in March 2019.

But the 24-year-old was guilty of missing several gilt-edged openings in the 2-1 victory to prevent Wales from enjoying a more comfortable night in Cardiff.

Page said: "Dan is not an out and out striker.

"He's evolved over the last few months. He's gone from playing wide left to a centre-forward in a 3-5-2. The formation has changed for him and his game's got to adapt slightly.

"But he's a talented footballer with unbelievable pace, he can score goals and he's creating chances.

"When centre-forwards are not creating chances that's the time to worry. The goals will come.

"He was brilliant against Austria and what he does for the team is unbelievable.

"He makes opposition defenders drop deep, which in turn creates more space for the creative players like Aaron Ramsey and Gareth Bale, and Harry Wilson and Joe Allen in the middle of the park."