Leo Hjelde admits Sunderland ‘surprise’ after Leeds United move

Although the former Leeds United defender acknowledged he was not expecting to start for Sunderland for the first time in Sunday’s Championship matchup against Middlesbrough, Leo Hjelde is clearly enjoying his opportunity with the Black Cats.

Following Aji Alesse’s injury, the 20-year-old Norwegian replaced Jenson Seelt in the starting lineup, allowing Trai Hume to return to his usual position at right back. In an attempt to get more playing time, Hjelde moved from Yorkshire to the North East, but he acknowledged that he was taken aback when he made his debut right away last weekend.

Despite his shock Michael Beale seemingly had no hesitation to hand the defender his debut in his side’s crunch 1-1 draw against local rivals Middlesbrough.

Hjelde stated, “It wasn’t something I was hoping for, but it was something I wasn’t expecting.” “The news was excellent and I’m quite happy with it. To be honest, I thought we should have turned down a few opportunities in the first half. We had to get stuck in because we got off to a late start in the second half. Naturally, things go a little tricky after the goal. They had the momentum, but we felt like we regained it, and while we could have done better, we were still happy with a point for the road.

“I’ll put in my best effort and make an effort to stick with the team. There will be fierce competition for spots because we have such a wonderful team, but I’m prepared for my role and I hope we can finish the work.

“The assistance for traveling was fantastic. It wasn’t surprising because I was aware of that prior to coming here. I can say, though, that it was still probably better than I had anticipated. My primary position is center back, and I really like it there, but you know I’ll play anywhere the manager puts me. If he has to play left wing, I can! It all comes down to gaining game time and being on the field for me.

“Getting settled in has been rather simple. I feel completely at home in the dressing room because it’s quite young. So far, I’m satisfied with the facility based only on how nice it seems to be.

Sunderland manager Beale said, “It’s been a whirlwind week for him,” expressing his satisfaction with the contribution of his new addition. I believed he had demonstrated what he would offer. He got up and down the field, in my opinion, and I felt he was persistent in his tackles.

He can play center-half on the left as well, demonstrating his versatility. He is another 20-year-old that we did a great job of bringing in. His personality is infectious, which is just what our team needs sometimes. I was happy for him as he had a voice, vigor, and aggression.