James is a striker who started playing for Walsall, where he scored three times in nine starts. Five goals in nine games on loan at Kidderminster led to a permanent move to the Harriers where 18 goals in 42 starts, plus two goals at Wembley in front of 53,000 at the FA Trophy final, meant interest from a host of league clubs. He joined Shrewsbury for an undisclosed fee where he scored four times in seven starts.

He joined United on a season long loan in July 2008 and was a massive success. Twenty plus goals, the chance to lead the line for England C, United's Players and Supporters Player of the Year, and the accolade of Blue Square player of the year highlighted his importance. After joining permanently in May 2009, James scored 29 goals including the team's second in a 3-1 Play-Off Final win over York City at Wembley Stadium.