Matty James joins Barnsley FC for a second loan spell

James, 29, has joined a season-long loan from Leicester City, having spent the second half of the 2016-17 campaign on loan with the Reds - making a positive impression in 18 appearances for the club.

His arrival - on a three-month loan until January - follows on from the permanent addition of Liverpool's Herbie Kane, who will provide another option in the middle of the park.

Kane has joined for an undisclosed fee and has signed a four-year deal.

The Bacup-born player - whose younger brother Reece plays for Doncaster Rovers - featured just once for the Foxes last term due to injury and will be handed the game time he craves at a former destination in Barnsley.

On rejoining the club, James said: “It’s fantastic. There’s a lot that has happened over the past couple of years with certain things, personally. The belief to be back from the Barnsley support is fantastic, so I’m excited, looking forward to it and can’t wait to get started.

“It almost happened in January, but it just didn’t come to light in the end. We’ve been in talks over the last few days to get back, get some games under my belt and hopefully help the team.”

Speaking about James recently, Leicester manager Brendan Rodgers said: “Matty’s been in a great vein of fitness. He had a slight issue with his calf a few weeks back, but he’s back training now.

“If clubs are looking for a midfield player that has a view of the game, a great understanding of the game and who is an incredible professional, and who’s great in a changing room…

"Matty needs some games now to get up to full speed but it is certainly no hardship having Matty around because he’s a fantastic guy and a great footballer.”

On the signing, Reds CEO Dane Murphy commented: “This is an excellent signing for the club.

"Matty is an accomplished player with a wealth of experience. He was just as eager to return as the club were to bring him back. The lasting connection between Matty James, the Club and the supporters was a significant variable in his decision.

“We have made significant steps to strengthen in key areas and this addition shows that we are continuing to make progress on the field.”