In the contemporary landscape of Filbert Way, where the atmosphere oscillates between desperate hope and existential dread, two figures stand illuminated beneath the King Power floodlights. The pair are the undisputed protagonists of the Leicester City narrative.
While the veteran poise of Harry Winks, the industriousness of Oliver Skipp, Ricardo Pereira's elegance, and the defensive resolve of Jamaal Lascelles provide a high-profile spine, they are merely a supporting cast to the transcendent brilliance of Abdul Fatawu and Jordan James. Indeed, as the current campaign descends into a whirlwind of mind-blowing inconsistency, it is arguable that James has eclipsed his Ghanaian counterpart, emerging as the most vital asset in the Foxes' arsenal.
Leicester City's midfield general
​James is, quite unequivocally, a Premier League footballer navigating a Championship storm. His technical superiority is regularly exhibited; his eye for goal was certainly on full display during the weekend's dismal encounter with Queens Park Rangers.
Whilst the collective performance was nothing short of a sporting calamity, James provided a solitary spark of refinement by returning to the scoresheet. The Wales international remains a welcomed returnee to a side desperate for his calibre of composure.
He seems to be happy here - for some reason
​Beyond the tactical, there is a refreshing sincerity to the former Birmingham City man. Following the QPR disaster, James displayed a captain's temperament, framing the remaining fixtures as "finals". Meanwhile reaffirming his profound pride in the Foxes crest; a shirt his own father explicitly encouraged him to sport.
"Not good enough yesterday and we know it. We have to reset to put it right on Saturday. On a personal note, buzzing to be back on the scoresheet wearing this shirt. 8 finals to go."James - LCFC Live
The hope now is that the East Midlands hierarchy can secure the 21-year-old's services for another term; ideally as a permanent Fox leading the charge for the footballing promised land. Whether he stays to become a legend or eventually commands a staggering profit, James has proven he is the superior heartbeat of this club. Securing him would be a rare gift for the Blue Army.