Leeds United employee issues verdict on Sam Greenwood completing transfer
Sam Greenwood will be a part of the Leeds United first-team next season despite Patrick Bamford’s likely return from injury, according to Noel Whelan.
The former Whites striker, speaking exclusively to Football Insider, claimed the 20-year-old is a “top talent” amid the youngster’s blossoming relationship with manager Jesse Marsch.
Greenwood made just one league start during the 2021-22 campaign, playing 85 minutes during Leeds United’s crucial 2-1 win against Brentford on the final day (22 May).
Five of the starlet’s six Premier League cameos from the bench came under Marsch – and he repaid the faith by claiming assists against Watford and Wolves.
Speaking shortly after his appointment (11 April), the American claimed Greenwood was the player who had “adapted the best” to his methods.
Speaking to talkSPORT on Monday (23 May), the former Arsenal youngster branded Marsch an “unbelievable coach” and insisted his positivity “is the best I’ve ever seen”.
Whelan insisted Leeds United can’t afford to lose Greenwood – even temporarily.
“I think Greenwood could benefit from a loan,” he told Football Insider‘s Ewan Kingsbury.
“However, I think Jesse Marsch has got a really good relationship with him, and we saw him being more and more involved at the end of the season. The trust was put in him on the final day, as well.
“We don’t have an awfully big squad.
“I think he’ll be kept along with Gelhardt and the rest of these promising youngsters coming through.
“He’s a top talent and we can’t afford to lose him – even if it is just a loan.”
In other news, Danny Mills fires “massive” Leeds United warning amid Raphinha exit claim.