Joel Piroe has enjoyed some wonderful moments in a Leeds United shirt since joining the club from Swansea in the summer – and he’s claimed he had the chance to sign for a Premier League side.
Piroe, 24, has netted nine goals in 21 Championship games for Leeds since his move to Elland Road in the summer. The Dutchman has been in and out of some matches, but his goalscoring touch is clear.
Even if, he is playing deeper as an attacking midfielder – behind Georginio Rutter. He has also laid on an assist, with Rutter dropping in deeper to crate chances for the likes of the on-rushing Piroe and others.
Back in the summer, following his £16m move to Leeds, it was claimed that Piroe had interest from the likes of Everton, Forest, Leicester and Southampton. He gave an interview to ESPN in the Netherlands.
Piroe was asked about his move to Leeds in the summer and the striker says he had the chance to join a Premier League club, or Leeds. He explains why he chose to join Leeds and ignore the top-tier club.
“A choice between a lesser team in the Premier League or a top team in the Championship. I weighed it up. I really wanted to go to Leeds. I expected more chances than at a low-flyer in the Premier League.
“Moreover, the chance of playing time at Leeds was also greater than in the Premier League. During my career I’ve noticed how important that is. Leeds was a very conscious choice for the sporting plan.”
Joel Piroe rejected Premier League club to join Leeds United
Piroe has been excellent at times, but perhaps, not on enough occasions for a player that has cost us an eight-figure fee. But as stated, there is no doubting his ability to score goals, all types of different ones.
Leeds need Piroe to continue his goalscoring rate of one goal every two, taking his tally to north of 20 this season. But also, for Piroe to get more involved. As the season goes on, you would imagine he will.
Receive a digest of our best Leeds content each week direct to your mailbox
