Jimmy Floyd Hasselbaink praises Sam Byram as a big Middlesbrough signing

Jimmy Floyd Hasselbaink believes Sam Byram's experience and promotion pedigree make him a key signing for Middlesbrough's push to return to the Premier League.

Jimmy Floyd Hasselbaink has identified Sam Byram as a key summer signing for Middlesbrough's promotion ambitions. The former Leeds United striker and current pundit highlighted the experienced defender's leadership as a key asset for the Teessiders.

Byram, 33, arrived at the Riverside Stadium on a free transfer in late August following the expiry of his contract at Leeds. He joins fellow ex-Leeds man Luke Ayling in a defensive unit tasked with replacing key departures. The pair are now the oldest outfield players in a Middlesbrough squad that made twelve summer signings, with Byram being the only one over the age of 24.

His career includes promotions with Norwich City and Leeds United, where he won the Championship title just last year. Byram has also played in the Premier League for West Ham and Norwich, bringing a wealth of know-how to a youthful Boro side currently sitting third in the table with 15 points from eight games.

Hasselbaink's endorsement

Hasselbaink, who knows the demands of the division, was emphatic in his praise. "You can see it already, the experience he has brought," he said. "It's a big signing for them, and a smart one, for sure."

The 54-year-old did sound a note of caution regarding Byram's fitness, given past injury issues. "They just have to keep him on the pitch, because he has had injuries in the past," Hasselbaink added, underlining the defender's importance to the campaign.

Byram himself has stated he is at the club to add experience and quality, knowing what is required to secure promotion. His versatility, offering cover at both full-back positions and in a back three, provides valuable options for the manager.

Fitting into the Boro picture

Middlesbrough's strong start to the season, which includes a recent 4-3 win over Norwich, shows the attacking potential in the squad. Young striker Will Lankshear leads the line with six goals already. The defensive solidity that Byram and Ayling can provide will be key to turning draws into wins, as seen in recent 2-2 results against Birmingham and Millwall.

With the club just two points off the top, the aim is clear. The experienced voices of Byram, Ayling, Alfie Jones, and Riley McGree will be vital in guiding a talented but young group through a gruelling Championship season. Fans can track the team's progress and upcoming challenges, including a top-four clash, on the club's fixtures and standings pages.

Middlesbrough's next test is a significant one at the Riverside this weekend, hosting fourth-placed Wolverhampton Wanderers.