Signing Details
Middlesbrough confirmed the signing of former Leeds United and West Ham defender Sam Byram on 22 June 2024. The 32-year-old left Leeds after his contract expired in June, having made just two substitute appearances in the Premier League last season. Byram will add depth to Kim Hellberg’s defensive options as the club seeks promotion back to the top flight after a play-off final defeat to Hull City.
Career Highlights
Byram spent two spells at Elland Road, making more than 220 appearances in all competitions. He was part of the Leeds squad that won the Championship title in 2023, securing promotion to the Premier League. Over his career he has also played for Nottingham Forest, West Ham United and Norwich City. In total, Byram has 61 Premier League appearances and has been involved in several promotions, including his time at Leeds.
Impact for Middlesbrough
Speaking on the club website, Byram said: “It’s a club I know well from playing against them over many seasons, so I’m very familiar with the place and delighted to be here. It’s a great club and a big club, and one that I’m really happy to be part of. I’ve been around this league for a number of years and had a couple of promotions in that time, so I know what it takes. It’s an incredibly tough league and a long season, but it’s a great squad and great group. If I can add a bit of experience and a bit of quality, that’s what I’m here to do.”
Byram’s experience in both the Championship and Premier League will give Boro a seasoned full-back who can contribute defensively and help the team’s promotion push. The signing comes at a time when the club is looking to strengthen its squad after narrowly missing out on promotion last season.
