Leo Hjelde has praised the ‘amazing’ Sunderland fans after making his debut at the weekend.
Sunderland were on the hunt for a new left-back during the January transfer window after Niall Huggins, Dennis Cirkin and Aji Alese were all sidelined through injury.
Leo Hjelde was linked with a move to Wearside earlier this week and it wasn’t long before the Black Cats confirmed the defender’s permanent arrival on a four and a half year deal.
Despite not featuring for Leeds United since the opening day of the campaign, Hjelde was thrown straight in at the deep end against Middlesbrough.
The 20-year-old replaced Jenson Seelt in Sunderland’s backline and put on a solid display as the two teams shared the points at the Riverside Stadium.
Hjelde was eager to praise the travelling support in a ‘very tough and scrappy’ game against Middlesbrough.
As per Sunderland Nation, Hjelde said: “The travelling support was amazing.
“I knew that before I came here as well so it wasn’t a surprise. But it was still probably better than I expected, I can say that.
“Obviously I was excited and a bit nervous. I was on the phone to my parents this morning just to talk it through with them and they settled me. It was great news and I’m very pleased for that.”
“It felt good. Obviously a very tough and scrappy game at times but I felt like we stuck in and got the point so it’s good.”
How did Leo Hjelde do on his debut?
Leo Hjelde had a positive impact on the Sunderland match and looked very settled after a nervy start.
The full-back played out the full 90 minutes against Michael Carrick’s side, making five clearances, one block and two interceptions. He also completed 75% of his passes, completed four accurate long passes and won two headers.
Given his lack of game time this season, it was a very promising debut for Hjelde. I do think he will have to do a lot to keep his place once Aji Alese returns though, as the 23-year-old is arguably one of our best defenders.
A successful period on Wearside for Hjelde could plunge Niall Huggins’ future into doubt though, as he could be entering the final 12 months of his contract once finally returns from injury.
Sunderland will have some very strong left-back options when everyone is fit though, while both Alese and Hjelde can also play at centre-back.