Leo Hjelde endured a difficult start to the season at Leeds United, but his confidence has improved considerably since the international break – helping Norway U21s to a 7-0 win over both legs.
Hjelde, 20, was a regular in pre-season and was started at left-back against Cardiff by Daniel Farke. But at half time, he was hooked. Ditto at Shrewsbury in the FA Cup – 90 minutes against Salford.
That is the former Celtic defender’s current tally – meaning he has made just eight appearances for Leeds at the highest level in his career since Parkhead moved to Elland Road in the summer of 2021 for £1million. Salford City v Leeds United – Carabao Cup Second Round
Few in Leeds wanted the international break to come – but Hjelde does. A chance to escape and play for your country. He made an impression. Norway 21 beat San Marino and Latvia 7-0.
Hjelde played 90 minutes in both games, playing on the left side of a two-man central defense – not Leeds’ left back. Perhaps his natural role. “The boys are having fun,” Hjelde posted on Instagram.
Leeds man Leo Hjelde twice helped Norway U21 to a 7-0 win
Hjelde is in a difficult situation at Leeds. Junior Firpo returns from injury, while Jamie Shackleton and Sam Byram impressed on the left side of defense – more so than Hjelde. He struggles to play. Especially when you consider that Pascal Struijk and Liam Cooper are the first positions on the left of central defense. It will be interesting to see if Hjelde is able to bounce back – perhaps he will leave the club on loan in January.
But his confidence will return after the break. Indeed, Anderlecht gem and Norway U21 teammate Kristian Arnstad. Manchester United’s Isak Aaroen also commented – mirroring Hjelde’s original title.
