Leeds United sent Sam Greenwood on loan to Preston North End during the summer, where he’s since become a key player for Paul Heckingbottom’s side.
Sam Greenwood, 22, has found first-team opportunities limited with Leeds United, spending time out on loan with Middlesbrough last season and then Preston this time round.
This season, the former Arsenal youngster has shone for the Lilywhites who’ve otherwise struggled in the Championship.
Local media hailed Greenwood’s last display for Preston highlighting his excellent work-rate in his side’s 2-0 win at Cardiff City, with Greenwood having scored four and assisted two in 17 Championship outings this season.
Greenwood though is of course unavailable for Preston this weekend as Paul Heckingbottom welcomes former club Leeds United to Deepdale.
The Whites will be looking to keep the heat on Championship leaders and build on their impressive midweek win against Middlesbrough at Elland Road.
Daniel Farke’s verdict on Sam Greenwood form, and chances of January recall at Leeds United
Speaking to the press on Friday, Farke gave his verdict on Greenwood’s loan spell at Preston so far.
He said: “Yes, pleased for Sam because he’s a great human being. Obviously, also a player with lots of potential for him in this age, I think it’s important to play more or less, week in week out.
“This is crucial. And due to the competition in our squad, we couldn’t guarantee this, and for that I’m happy that he found a place where he is right now playing on the regular.”
Then asked whether he’s considered a January recall for the attacker, Farke explained: “In general, I’m not a fan of sending players out on loan just for a few months.
“I think it’s important that they have a proper year to develop their personality and be a proper member.”
Farke later added: “I would never rule anything out in football… But in general, I would always say it makes no sense just to send a player just for a few months.”
Preston given hope of permanent Sam Greenwood deal
Greenwood remains under contract at Elland Road for another season after this one, with his deal expiring in the summer of 2026.
And should he not do enough to impress Farke this season then it could make sense for Leeds to offload for before eventually releasing him.
Speaking recently, former Preston boss Alex Neil tipped Preston to sign Greenwood on a permanent deal next summer.
He said the Lilywhites should ‘go out and get’ Greenwood, adding: “The issue with Greenwood might be the salary in general. I don’t know where that sits. But, if you are at a club like Leeds, you would imagine that most Leeds players would be on a chunky salary.”
Leeds against Preston kicks off at 12:30pm on Saturday afternoon.
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