Sam Greenwood, a Leeds United loanee, has had an up and down start at Preston North End, but he had one of his greatest performances yet in the Carabao Cup.
Greenwood is one of only five Leeds players presently on loan, and this could be his last chance to prove he has what it takes to play at Elland Road.
It has not been an easy start for him at Deepdale, with PNE dismissing the manager who signed him, Ryan Lowe, after the season’s first game.
He has continued to play regularly under new manager Paul Heckingbottom, but results have been a struggle, with the club currently in 21st place with four points.
However, the Carabao Cup has provided Greenwood and his teammates with a pleasant vacation from the competition, with Greenwood scoring twice in the past round against Harrogate Town and now defeating Premier competition club Fulham.
PNE media raves about Leeds loanee Greenwood.
Greenwood started on the bench for PNE against Fulham but was brought in with just over 20 minutes remaining, the score still 1-1.
Ryan Ledson’s goal put the hosts ahead 1-0 at halftime, but Reiss Nelson equalised on the hour mark.
Greenwood was brought on during a difficult part of the game for North End, but he was able to assist send the game to penalties, where he truly shined.
In an exciting shootout, both teams took 17 penalties, with Greenwood stepping up twice and scoring both times.
PNE won the shootout 16-15 and advanced to the next round, with the Lancashire Evening News praising Greenwood’s effort and penalties.
They wrote, “Sam Greenwood – 7.” After being introduced, he performed admirably on both sides of the game. His spot kicks were excellent.
“Added some intelligence in the last stages of normal time and made no mistakes in the shootout. “A couple of very confident penalties stuck away.”
How has Greenwood done overall at the PNE?
As previously stated, Greenwood has had a mixed record in Lancashire, with the most of his success coming in the cup.
Greenwood has failed to score or assist in the Championship, despite starting three of PNE’s five games.
Greenwood, as at Leeds, has played in a variety of positions, including central midfield and on the right side of attack, which is likely working against him.
Between now and the end of the season, Greenwood must get a permanent place if he is to stand a chance of making it at Leeds, which is clearly doubtful.
