Ian Poveda completed a shock exit yesterday, joining Sheffield Wednesday from Leeds United and signing initially on loan with his deal due to end in the summer – and he is “more than happy” to go.
Poveda, 23, returned to Leeds in the summer after a difficult loan at Blackpool. But he impressed in pre-season and was given 10 appearances by Daniel Farke during the first half of the 2023-24 campaign.
But, he is well down the pecking order and was one of a number of players who will see their contracts end in the summer at Elland Road. Like, Liam Cooper, Stuart Dallas, Jamie Shackleton and Sam Byram.
It still came as a surprise though, that Poveda would leave. Initially, it was expected he would go on a permanent basis, with Tony Mowbray looking to sign him at Birmingham – having had him at Blackburn.
Poveda posted on Instagram after completing a move to Sheffield Wednesday, prompting reaction from Junior Firpo and Luke Ayling. Now, speaking to his new club’s website, he says he was excited to go.
“I’m very happy to be here. I had a meeting with the manager. For me, that was the deciding factor. His style of play, his methodology – I was more than happy to come. I’m happy than it’s done. I’m excited.”
Ian Poveda admits he is ‘happy’ to leave Leeds for Wednesday
You can hardly blame him. Poveda has had it tough at Leeds. Just 30 senior outings in four years, sent on loan twice and breaking his leg while at Blackburn under Mowbray. The attacker needs a fresh start.
Wednesday have picked up a couple of draws last time out and they are trying to play a nice brand of football under boss Danny Rohl. Even if they are relegated, at least, it is a platform for Poveda to shine.
He is only on loan but in a similar case to Luke Ayling, he is on loan until his contract ends in June. Then, it is expected he will sign permanently. He could play in a huge clash against Huddersfield on Saturday.
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