Leo Hjelde compares Sunderland to Leeds United squad after Elland Road exit
Leo Hjelde believes the Sunderland squad has just as much quality as Leeds United after sealing a move away from Elland Road in the January transfer window.
Speaking to The Northern Echo on Tuesday (6 February), the 20-year-old defender said the biggest difference between the Black Cats’ team and his former teammates is the age of the squad, with the Whites possessing more experience than their Championship rivals.
The Norway U-21 international added that the quality in the ranks at the Stadium of Light is “unbelievable” and that he’s “really pleased” after making the move to the north east.
“If you look at the Sunderland squad compared to the one at Leeds, I don’t really think there’s any difference in terms of quality,” said Hjelde. “The biggest difference is probably the age of the squad.
“We probably don’t have as much experience here. But the quality of the boys is definitely right up there. It’s unbelievable really, and that’s the reason why the club has this philosophy of signing young, exciting talent.
“The squad is really good, I’m very pleased with what I’ve come into.”
Opportunity for regular football away from Leeds United
It was no real surprise to see Hjelde make the move away from Leeds as his opportunities have been extremely limited at Elland Road.
Even with the Whites having a couple of injuries at left-back during this campaign, he didn’t make a single Championship appearance since starting on the opening day against Cardiff City.
After completing his switch to Sunderland on 30 January, he was named in the starting lineup to make his debut for the club in the 1-1 draw against Middlesbrough on Sunderland (4 February).
There are definitely a lot of talented youngsters at the Stadium of Light, but they perhaps aren’t quite on the same level as the likes of Crysenio Summerville after he’s been incredible this season.
It’s an ideal move for the Norweigan, though, as he should get the chance to play plenty of football and will be given the chance to continue improving.
In other Leeds United news, the Whites could be set for an FA Cup cash injection.
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