Former Leeds United midfielder gets backing.
Ronaldo Vieira’s departure from Leeds United was met with dismay from sections of the fanbase.
The midfielder was seen as one of Leeds’ brightest prospects, only for the Whites to cash in on the midfielder for £7 million.
Leeds have shown they are more than able to cope without him, sitting at the top of the Championship table.
Vieira joined Italian side Sampdoria and has struggled to make an impact.
He has made only two appearances so far, both from the substitute’s bench.
His efforts have seen him play a scant 25 minutes of Serie A football, in which his only notable contribution was a yellow card.
Despite Vieira’s struggles, he has been given some backing from England under-20 coach Paul Simpson.
Vieira has been named in the squad for their upcoming games, and will feature alongside former Leeds teammate Tom Pearce.
Pearce has also struggled for game time at Leeds, but he could have a role to play this weekend with Barry Douglas injured.
There is no obvious route into the Sampdoria side for Vieira at present other than if he can impress off the bench, and the England call will be vital to his confidence.
Receive exclusive football transfer news and updates twice a week to your mailbox
