Middlesbrough’s local media have been left blown away by the work rate of Leeds United loanee Sam Greenwood in their 2-1 win over Norwich City.
As per the Gazette’s post-match player ratings piece, Greenwood has handed an 8/10 for his performance, with his effort levels drawing particular praise.
Greenwood is really beginning to reap the rewards of playing regular football, starting each of their last four matches as Boro made it six wins in a row on Tuesday night.
The 21-year-old actually netted Boro’s opener at Carrow Road as he met Josh Coburn’s pass to finish first time via a deflection, though it was going in anyway.
That was Greenwood’s second goal since moving on loan from Leeds, as he also scored in Boro’s emphatic 4-0 win at his former side Sunderland earlier this month.
Leeds loanee Greenwood hailed for work rate
While Greenwood was also praised for his work in the final third, it was his work rate that won him the most plaudits, consistently helping his full-back Lukas Engel deal with Norwich dangerman Jonathan Rowe.
They wrote: “Greenwood – 8. Lively and penetrative throughout, he scored what looked like being the only goal until stoppage time drama. Not just is goal though, the amount of effort Greenwood put in for his side in this one, supporting Engel throughout down that left, should not go unnoticed.”
It is good to see Greenwood out on loan and enjoying regular senior football, as the odd substitute appearance here and there for Leeds was never going to benefit him.
Jesse Marsch threatened to ruin Greenwood’s development by playing him in a deep midfield role, but Michael Carrick seems to be bringing the best out of him in a more attacking role.
It was always clear in the U23s that the final third was where Greenwood’s strength is, and with two goals in four starts, it appears as though he is getting better and better.
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