Sam Greenwood insists he’s never felt more comfortable in his new Leeds United midfield role as he continues to establish himself at Elland Road. Greenwood spent his youth team days playing in a more advanced forward position, but he has settled into a centre midfield role under head coach Jesse Marsch over the last few months.
Premier League chances haven’t always been easy to come by for Greenwood this season, making just six appearances and one start, but the 20-year-old enjoyed a breakthrough moment last month against Bournemouth. Leeds were 3-1 down at home to the Cherries when he stepped off the bench to replace Marc Roca, but he bagged a goal and an assist to help completely turn the game on its head as Leeds secured three more precious points.
As such, Greenwood could be forgiven for thinking the World Cup break came at the wrong time as he looked to make the most of the momentum he had built up. The England Under-21s international is approaching the Premier League restart in a confident frame of mind, though, as he aims to take the next step in his career.
Read more: Jesse Marsch given Leeds United food for thought as Mateo Joseph takes next step
“I need to keep making an impact,” Greenwood said in the club’s programme for the Real Sociedad clash. “There’s always hard work to do but at this point, for me personally, I’ve never felt better about the position I am in – so I need to keep working had to establish myself in this team.
He added: “As time goes on I am getting more used to the new role and I am enjoying it. I feel a lot more comfortable playing there than when I first moved into the role, that’s for sure. But, I am still available when needed to get higher up the pitch, too, so it’s good to be flexible.
“It’s important to learn new skills and bring able to play in different places gives you more opportunities to get into the team.”
With Tyler Adams suspended, Greenwood is in contention for what would be just his third Premier League start when Manchester City travel to West Yorkshire next week. He did his chances of selection no harm at all with his performances during the club’s mid-season friendlies and as the campaign progresses, he’s keen to have even more involvement.
“I always set myself goals and targets,” he said. “It’s about working hard and doing what is best for the team.
“We’ve got plenty of games left and obviously I want to be part of them so whatever I can do to help I will be doing.”
One constant in his Leeds career has been current first-team coach Mark Jackson, who previously headed up the U21s and has been announced as the new manager at League One side MK Dons, and Greenwood credits both him and Marsch as having big influences on his development.
“Jesse and Jacko have been really good with us all and, not just me, all the young lads,” he said. “We’ve had time to speak individually about what we’re doing well, what we need to get better at, what we can work on, so it’s all great advice for me to keep working and pushing going forward. I know I have plenty left to learn but it’s been great so far and I want to keep going.”
READ NEXT:
'It was really easy' - Pascal Struijk's first words after penning new Leeds United contract
Andrea Radrizzani opens up on his 49ers relationship and necessary Leeds United improvements
Illan Meslier latest as Jesse Marsch gives fitness update and talks Leeds United back-up plan
Gnonto and Koch among Leeds United World Cup break winners but luck deserts star men
Every word Jesse Marsch said on Leeds United injuries, Mark Jackson and January transfer window
