During an interview with Football Insider, Noel Whelan has voiced his opinion on Bright Osayi-Samuel potentially joining Leeds United. The former striker believes that the QPR star’s versatility could be useful for Marcelo Bielsa, stating, “He has loads of pace, and there is a fantastic winger there, but I am not so sure we need more wingers.
“He could play that wing-back role as well, and Leeds will look at that because Marcelo Bielsa likes players that can play multiple positions. He has the athleticism to play that right wing-back role. He is really quick and has pace to burn.”
Bright Osayi-Samuel’s success at QPR?
Osayi-Samuel has been a part of the QPR side since 2017 when he joined the club from Blackpool. He has since gradually improved and has now become a key component in the club’s offensive armoury. In fact, the winger has featured in 29 league matches this term, scoring five goals and providing eight assists.
Osayi-Samuel’s productivity in the final third has been critical in helping QPR retain their mid-table status in the Championship so far. The 22-year-old has notably averaged 1.2 key passes per game while winning 2.8 dribbles with a success rate of 65%. His tally of 1.4 shots on goal per game is quite impressive as well.
What can he bring to the table?
A right-winger by trade, Osayi-Samuel is an explosive attacker, who loves to take on defenders. His success rate of 65% with a volume of 2.8 dribbles per game means he makes a strong case for being one of the best dribblers in the Championship. The youngster’s quick feet are complemented by his sheer pace and lethal finishing – making him a well-rounded attacker.
How does he fit under Bielsa?
Whelan is right about the fact that Leeds United might not need new wingers, especially if both Helder Costa and Jack Harrison remain at the club next season. However, given Osayi-Samuel’s offensive characteristics, employing him in the wing-back role would be nothing more than a waste.
In the attack, Leeds could benefit from his pace and trickery out wide. He can be utilised as a super-sub, with the 22-year-old’s energy and speed making him a scourge for the defenders on the counter. Moreover, Osayi-Samuel has already impressed the onlookers with his tremendous productivity.
Therefore, the Whites should definitely look to sign the QPR star this summer. He will provide some much-needed competition in the offensive unit, giving Harrison and Costa an incentive to fight for their places in the starting lineup. Besides, Osayi-Samuel will relish the opportunity of playing in the Premier League, although that will depend on the fate of the ongoing campaign.
Stat courtesy: Whoscored
