Leeds United are starting to show real fight in their return to the Premier League, and one man behind the scenes deserves plenty of credit, Adam Underwood.
The club’s sporting director took a big gamble in the summer transfer window, and it looks like it’s finally paying off in style.
Adam Underwood’s summer masterstroke
Adam Underwood, the man running Leeds’ recruitment plans, had a tough summer.
The club missed out on a few key attacking targets, including Brazilian winger Igor Paixao, who decided to join Marseille instead.
Pressure was mounting as fans grew worried that Leeds wouldn’t land the right players before the deadline.
But Underwood had a plan. When others doubted, he made a late move to sign Noah Okafor from AC Milan.
It looked like a risky deal at the time. Okafor had struggled with injuries and barely played the season before.
Many fans were unsure if he could adapt to the Premier League.
Now, only a few months later, it looks like Underwood has pulled off one of the smartest moves of the window.
Leeds United star shining bright
Noah Okafor is fast becoming one of the most exciting players at Elland Road.
The Swiss winger has pace, strength, and a fearless approach that terrifies defenders.
Former Leeds player Aidy White even said on BBC Radio Leeds that Okafor is “horrible to play against” because of how direct he is on the counter-attack.
“When he’s running at you, he makes defenders panic,” said White. “He’s got pace, power, and a bit of flair, exactly what you want from a winger.”
The Leeds United star has proven to be a nightmare for defenders, taking players on one-by-one and creating chances whenever he touches the ball.
Even though he has missed some games with injury, his impact has been clear every time he steps onto the pitch.
Okafor’s impact in numbers
Image: Malcolm Bryce/Leeds United via Getty Images
Okafor’s stats show why Adam Underwood’s gamble looks genius now.
He ranks among the best in the league for dribbles completed, progressive carries, and one-on-one duels won.
His physicality also stands out, he wins aerial battles that many wingers can’t.
Leeds have struggled for creativity at times this season, especially with Daniel James and Wilfried Gnonto battling injuries.
But Okafor’s form has been a big boost. When he’s fit, Leeds look a completely different side, faster, sharper, and more dangerous in attack.
Leeds fans are loving the new star
Leeds United fans are already calling him one of the best signings in years.
Okafor’s work rate and energy fit perfectly with the team’s style under Daniel Farke, and his performances are giving hope that Leeds can stay up comfortably this season.
If Okafor keeps playing like this, Adam Underwood will be hailed as the man who brought Leeds’ attack back to life.
For just a fraction of what other Premier League clubs are spending, Leeds may have found their new superstar.
For more Leeds United news, gear, and match updates, follow us on Facebook or join our brand new WhatsApp Channel for instant updates directly to your phone.
Discover more from Leeds United News
Subscribe to get the latest posts sent to your email.
