Daniel Farke has told Wednesday night’s press conference – as per Leeds Live – that he is yet to start new Leeds United signing Sam Byram as the club continue to monitor his progress, to prevent him from picking up an injury.
Byram, 29, became our third summer signing this summer – returning to the club seven and a half years after his move to West Ham from Leeds in January 2016. After an initial trial and impressing in pre-season, he has signed on.
Given his injuries – which has limited him to just 98 games in those seven and a bit years – many Leeds fans might have been cautious about his arrival. But since impressing in pre-season, many were all for Byram’s Leeds return.
Certainly, his form has been strong. His start against Forest, and his subsequent two 45-minute games against Cardiff and Shrewsbury has impressed. Farke, too. The Leeds boss explained why he is not doing 90 minutes, yet.
“Byram; fantastic second half, same today. Still fine margins, balance to keep workload right. Problems with injury in the past. He cannot play 90 mins, three times in a week. Good to get another 45. Need him ready for the weekend.”
Daniel Farke explains why he is yet to hand Sam Byram a Leeds start
It is good that Byram is being eased into the rigours of Championship football. With Leo Hjelde struggling though at this early stage in the season, Byram deserves to start at Birmingham on Saturday. Even if he only lasts an hour.
Chuck him in the starting line-up and start to take his minutes to 60-70 minutes. Hjelde is a good option to have on the bench, too. He is able to play at centre-back and left-back. Both have a chance while Junior Firpo is injured.Byram, 29, became our third summer signing this summer – returning to the club seven and a half years after his move to West Ham from Leeds in January 2016. After an initial trial and impressing in pre-season, he has signed on.
