Crysencio Summerville has expressed his full commitment to helping Leeds United overcome Southampton in Sunday’s play-off final, while also addressing speculation about his future and highlighting his favorite teammate at Elland Road.
After Leeds United’s relegation 12 months ago, many players left the club, much to the relief of the fans. Adding to the upheaval, 49ers Enterprises took full control from Andrea Radrizzani and appointed Daniel Farke as the new manager. Despite the chaos, Summerville remained loyal to Leeds.
Summerville, who had a disappointing end to last season, is now focused on helping Leeds return to the Premier League. Heading into Sunday’s Championship play-off final against Southampton, he has scored 21 goals and was named the Championship Player of the Year.
Reflecting on last summer, Summerville told TEAMtalk: “Relegation was devastating. But we have great characters in the team, like Joe Rodon, Ethan Ampadu, and Connor Roberts. The coaching staff has also strengthened us, and we are now one unit. I can feel the connection with the fans.”
Despite numerous transfer rumors linking him to Liverpool, Aston Villa, Newcastle, Bayer Leverkusen, and Chelsea, Summerville dismissed any suggestions that he wanted to leave last summer. “I loved to stay because getting straight back up was always my plan,” he said. “I wanted to be a key part of the team and didn’t think about leaving. I felt at home after signing a new contract and wanted to return to the Premier League with Leeds.”
Summerville’s desire to be a central figure for Leeds further influenced his decision to stay. “I wanted to be a key player for Leeds United this season,” he said. “Some call it pressure, but I see it as a challenge. I love being an important player for the team, not just with goals and assists but also through leadership. I’m growing every day.”
Looking ahead to the play-off final against Southampton, Summerville is confident despite their previous losses to the Saints. “Both games were in a different period, and this is a play-off final. It’s totally different, so we will approach it differently. We have the best group I’ve ever been involved with, and we need to win the play-off final first. Hopefully, we can do that and then see what we can achieve in the Premier League.”
Summerville will face Kyle Walker-Peters, recognized as one of the best right-backs in the Championship. “I like to challenge myself against the best, so I’m looking forward to the duel,” said Summerville.
He also praised his partnership with Junior Firpo on the left flank, especially noting Firpo’s unselfish play in their recent win against Norwich City. “Our connection has grown a lot throughout the season. I love playing with Junior on the left; we understand each other well. It’s been good,” Summerville concluded.
