Sam Byram has described how Daniel Farke approached him about returning to Leeds United in the summer after becoming a free agent, and how “a few clubs” were interested, in the official Leeds United podcast.
After leaving Elland Road for West Ham seven and a half years prior, Byram, 30, returned to Leeds this past summer on a free agent basis. Byram only played in 98 games between stints at Leeds because to injuries.
Since Junior Firpo and Stuart Dallas are both injured, the fullback has emerged as a crucial player and first choice on the left side of the defense after demonstrating his fitness versus Leeds.
Indeed, Byram has played 90 minutes four times in a row – proving he is over injuries to a considerable degree. The defender spoke of how the move came about, the risk, and other clubs that were keen.
“Definitely no guarantee. I’d come off the back of not the best injury situation at Norwich, a free agent. Few clubs interested, couple of options abroad. I’d done a lot of fitness and extra training in the summer.
“I was in a good position. I got a message off the boss and his staff, ‘you’re a free agent, we know you know the club, you want to train with us’. Chance of re-signing outweighed any risk. Pure excitement.”
Byram on how Farke approached him to rejoin Leeds United
It comes as a pleasant surprise, does Byram’s success at this early stage in the season. He has been a revelation, even despite playing on his weaker side. He even scored in a 3-0 home win over Watford.
In terms of summer signings, Byram is up there with the best ones – alongside Ethan Ampadu, Joe Rodon and Joel Piroe. Glen Kamara is just making his mark on the team. Hopefully, he can remain fit.
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