Leeds United released their retained list this week, detailing the players that will leave the club at the end of the football season. The club’s list brought some surprises.
Especially with the exits of some talented youth players. One exit that was confirmed was Josuha Guilavogui. The veteran was signed when there was an injury crisis at the end of last year. The 34-year was an important squad player, and a voice in the dressing room.
Leeds also revealed that they would hold talks with Sam Byram and Junior Firpo this summer. The fullback duo were set to leave the club at the end of their contracts next month. It is now very likely that at least one of them remains at Elland Road.
QUIZ: Can you name these 10 former Leeds United players?
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Former Leeds United man drops hint over new deal
Credit: Imago Images
Former Leeds man Aidy White has now shared that he would be happy if Sam Byram signed a new deal. White considers the move a ”no-brainer”:
“Sam has been a great servant. If we go out and find a replacement, how much is that going to cost? Are they as capable as Sam? I can’t imagine someone coming in and taking Bogle’s place from the off.” he said on The West Stand.
“So having Byram – similar to what Guilavogui has done and take a step back from playing – for me, I’d give him a contract and say look Sam, this is the situation – you aren’t going to play much,” he added.
“He might want to go and play football but when you have that affinity with the club, you take that role on. He fits the bill, it is a no-brainer,”
Should Leeds re-sign Sam Byram?
Byram returning makes a lot of sense. For one, the club saves money on potentially signing a backup fullback. Byram’s versatility also allows him to play on both flanks, meaning he can fill two spots. Secondly, the defender is used to Daniel Farke’s system and would not need a whole pre season to adapt.
An underrated part to this is that he is a homegrown talent according to Premier League rules. Which means he ticks boxes for the squad, allowing to fit in more foreign talent in squads. Leeds signing Byram could be a positive.
