Middlesbrough boss Michael Carrick makes ‘first class’ admission over Leeds United loanee Sam Greenwood
Middlesbrough boss Michael Carrick labelled Leeds United loanee Sam Greenwood as “first class” and is convinced there is “loads more to come” from him.
Many expected Greenwood to get an opportunity at Elland Road in the Championship following the club’s relegation from the Premier League last term.
But with a packed forward line including Georginio Rutter, Joel Piroe, Dan James, Crysencio Summerville, Patrick Bamford, and Wilfried Gnonto blocking his path, the decision was made for the 21-year-old to join Boro on loan.
He has since scored four goals in 13 Championship outings (eight as starts) and Carrick is thrilled with his contribution to the cause.
In quotes reported by TeesideLive (6 December), he said: “I’m delighted for him. I always enjoy seeing players who have got their potential thriving and growing. We try to give them a platform to do that and Sam has been terrific.
“He’s played a bit of football but is still in the early days of his career, so to come in and develop so quickly – and we can all see what he offers to the team, along with his attitude and how he helps the team – he’s been absolutely first class.
“He’s another one where there is still loads more to come as well, which is really encouraging. I really enjoy seeing the boys grow and develop and, just as importantly, enjoying themselves as well.”
Exit bound?
The situation surrounding Greenwood is a little complicated because a purchase agreement of £1.5million does exist between the two clubs, but Greenwood would still need to give the green light on the switch himself.
It does feel a little like Carrick is buttering Greenwood up to convince him that his long-term future is at the Riverside Stadium, a tactic he is perfectly entitled to employ given Greenwood is, at least for now, a Boro player.
You would have thought Leeds might have negotiated a higher purchase price, though. Greenwood is still only 21 years old and has bags of potential, it feels like Boro could be potentially getting a snip if he lives up to the billing.
Either way, it will be interesting to see how this one plays out as the season moves along, and he might even indirectly boost Leeds’ promotion chances if he can contribute for Boro against their promotion rivals.
In other Leeds United news, Junior Firpo is in disbelief at the Elland Road supporters.