Sam Byram labelled ‘one of the best’ free transfers in Leeds United history by Daniel Farke
Daniel Farke had extremely high praise for one of his Leeds United defenders following a 3-1 victory over Swansea City on Wednesday night.
Despite an average first-half performance, Farke’s men managed a 2-1 lead at the break but a far more impressive second-half display helped the Whites to a comfortable win, with all players chipping in to claim the three points.
While impressed with a strong all-round team performance, Farke was particularly vocal about just how good Sam Byram has been this season since returning to Elland Road on a free transfer last summer.
“He must be one of the best free transfer scenarios in the history of Leeds United,” Farke said in quotes reported by LeedsLive on Wednesday (29 November).
“I’ve known Sam a few years and I was 100 per cent sure what he would offer when we decided to sign him on a free transfer.
“I think he’s playing fantastic and had an outstanding season so far. His value he has proved for us today [versus Swansea].”
A bold claim
In an article by The Athletic’s Phil Hay in 2020, Patrick Kisnorbo was ranked by Leeds fans as their best free transfer since 2000, followed by Rob Green, Richard Naylor, Neil Sullivan and David Somma.
It would be interesting to see if Byram made the list if this vote were to take place now. Nostalgia is a huge factor in footballing opinions, which could see any of these names above potentially rival the 30-year-old in the list of the best free transfers in Leeds’ history.
However, as a local boy and academy graduate, Byram has quickly re-emerged as a fan favourite at Elland Road and his performance against Swansea on Wednesday can only cement their trust more in the free transfer.
Since making the move from Norwich City in the summer, the full-back has gone from strength to strength, appearing in 16 of Leeds’ 18 league games so far, even grabbing a goal and an assist from defence.
As one of the most experienced players in the dressing room, Byram not only brings his ability on the pitch into the squad but also the wisdom and intelligence needed to challenge for promotion back to the Premier League.
Byram has voiced disappointment at not being with the team when Leeds finally gained promotion back to the first division in 2020, having left the Whites in January 2016. He made 143 appearances before leaving for West Ham United as a young boy but has returned to the club a man.
In other Leeds United news, high-earning first-team star is “burning with desire” to leave club in January.