29-year-old could save Leeds millions after shining in win vs Nottingham Forest – opinion
Leeds United are unquestionably in the market for a new left-back this summer.
It has now been a problem at Leeds for a countless number of seasons and that is no different heading into the new campaign.
Junior Firpo is currently the only recognised left-back on the books at Elland Road, but is expected to miss the next five weeks through to injury, and is also likely to depart.
Leo Hjelde is more than capable of filling in there and has looked promising during pre-season, but his long-term future in the game lays at centre-back.
However, Leeds may have just found themselves a cheap alternative in an old face who has been invited back for pre-season.
Sam Byram could save Leeds millions this summer after Forest display
It was originally reported by the club Sam Byram would just be training back at Thorp Arch to maintain his fitness in his search for a new club.
However, Byram has now featured in both of Leeds’ last two pre-season matches, playing 70 minutes in the win against Forest at left-back.
Byram was one of Leeds’ stand-out performers in the game, looking extremely assured in possession, solid in defence, and a decent threat in attack.
Left-back is where he spent the majority of his time at old club Norwich City and despite being right footed, it clearly does not affect him playing on the opposite flank.
If Daniel Farke is happy to go forward with Hjelde as his first choice left-back, Byram could be an excellent back-up option in that role, which also being able to cover on the other side.
That would undoubtedly save Leeds from spending millions on a potential new signing, allowing them to spend it heavily elsewhere on crucial positions such as striker and attacking midfield.
