How Ethan Ampadu and ex-Leeds United heroes reacted to Sam Byram exit message
Leeds United stars of past and present have paid their tributes to Sam Byram after his Whites exit.
A boyhood Leeds fan, Byram first joined the Whites' academy system as an 11-year-old in 2005.
He would make his senior debut in 2012, and after leaving Elland Road in 2016, the defender would make his way back in the summer of 2023.
In total, Byram made 224 appearances for Leeds, and played a crucial role in the Championship title-winning campaign of 2024-25.
But as he enters the twilight of his career, he's chosen to leave LS11 and join second-tier promotion hopefuls Middlesbrough on a free transfer.
The versatile defender lived the dream at Leeds, and clearly made a huge impression on so many of his former comrades.
What did Ethan Ampadu say Sam Byram was the 'best' at?
Taking to his Instagram account, Byram has penned a long and heartfelt message to Leeds following his Middlesbrough move.
"My chapter at Leeds comes to and end. To all the fans, thank you for welcoming me back and making me feel at home from the very first day," he said.
"Thank you for the passion, the loyalty and the support week after week. To represent you and to wear this shirt was always a dream of mine, but to play for this club over 200 times has been an honour and something I’m incredibly proud of.
"A Special thankyou to the to the manager and his staff. Without them taking a chance on me I know I would not have had the opportunity to come back and experience the last three amazing seasons.
"What a journey it’s been… starting out on trial, losing the play-off final, and then going on to be promoted back to the Premier League as champions the following year. I can honestly say it’s been the best and most enjoyable three years of my career so far.
"An incredible group of players and staff that I’m truly grateful to have been a part of, and memories that will last a lifetime.
"It’s now time for me to watch on as a fan, but I wish nothing but success for the upcoming season and beyond for everyone involved with the club. Leeds really is a special place, and I feel to lucky to have been a small part of it."
In the comments below his post, Ethan Ampadu proclaimed: "Best first touch I’ve ever seen, some human."
Meanwhile, ex-Leeds academy graduate and current Tottenham star Archie Gray responded: "What a guy."
Kalvin Phillips left three love hearts, whilst Luciano Becchio, one of Byram's earliest Leeds teammates, said: "All the best my man."
Sam Greenwood wrote: "All the best Sam", whilst Dan James said: "An absolute pleasure."
Evidently, Byram forged some lifelong relationships during his time with Leeds, but what are his prospects at Middlesbrough like for 2026-27?
What are Byram's chances of a starting role at Middlesbrough?
The Championship's nearly men for a number of years now, many are backing Middlesbrough to finally end their Premier League exile this term.
Kim Hellberg's side have arguably had the best summer transfer window of any side in the second tier, and look to have their best side in some time.
Their full-back spots look strong, with Callum Brittain a proven Championship star at right-back, and Max Arfsten joining for a sizeable fee this summer on the left.
Boro's centre-back room is also well-stocked with talent, so Byram will likely need some injuries in order to crack the starting XI.
However, in a young Boro side, Byram will provide some valuable experience, whilst also joining back up with ex-Whites hero Luke Ayling too.
So, don't be surprised to see Byram take on an important role on Teesside as the season moves on, when injuries and fatigue requires backups to step into starting roles.