Ben Parker has told LS11 that Leeds United defender Sam Byram has been “brilliant” since his return to Elland Road in the summer – and he guarantees a rating of 7/10 every game despite playing on the left.
Byram, 30, has started four Championship matches in a row as he continues to prove to Daniel Farke that he is fit enough to cope with the rigour of the second tier of English football. He has been superb.
Defensively, he reminded all what he is capable of. A clearance off the line and then a wonderful block to keep Bristol City out, with Leeds leading 2-1, was as good as three points. In attack, he has an impact.
Indeed, the ex-West Ham and Norwich man scored a bullet header against Watford in a 3-0 win earlier this season. But also, his dribbles from deep on the left are effective. Parker is full of praise for him.
“We should see him for what he is now, he’s a left-back – an out and out, left-back. He’s the best in the Championship, from what I’ve seen. Cool, calm, knows when to get forward. Those two blocks, superb.
“You need players like Sam, guaranteed 7/10 and has the capability to get eight, nine, 10. He has brilliant since he has been back and made a great start to the season,” Parker said about Byram, on Thursday.
Parker: Byram has been brilliant for Leeds and guarantees 7/10
What a signing hew has been. In terms of value for money, he is our best signing of the summer. Ethan Ampadu and Joel Piroe have been excellent but they have cost a combined, initial £17.5m. Byram? Free.
Joe Rodon also deserves a mention – but he is only on loan and even then, will have cost a sizeable loan fee. Byram has been wonderful and for now, is solving a long-standing problem on the left of defence.
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