Crystal Palace loanee Jesurun Rak-Sakyi has discussed his reason for joining Sheffield United over the summer transfer window.
The winger had previously impressed in a loan spell at Charlton, which saw him return to become part of the first-team setup at Selhurst Park last season.
However, injuries plagued Rak-Sakyi as he struggled to make himself part of Roy Hodgson’s, and later Oliver Glasner’s, plans.
The Crystal Palace academy graduate faced a tough decision this summer regarding his future with the Eagles.
A loan spell was on the cards in the Championship, while reports claimed that there was interest in the Premier League for a permanent transfer.
In the end, a loan switch to Sheffield United was confirmed for the 21-year-old, who is now looking to kick on with the Blades.
Jesurun Rak-Sakyi explains Leeds United transfer snub
While Rak-Sakyi made the loan move to Bramall Lane, there was interest from Leeds United in making a move.
The Whites had been on the lookout for a replacement for one-time Crystal Palace transfer target Crysencio Summerville, who ended up joining West Ham United instead.
With a deal to join the Elland Road outfit falling through, Rak-Sakyi explained the reason he opted for Sheffield United instead.
“My agent made me aware of the interest from them [Leeds] and I knew it was a big club,” the Crystal Palace loanee told the media.
“But the manager here [Chris Wilder] spoke to me and I was really impressed with what he said and the plans he had for me. So that made me decide to come here.
“It’s a big challenge, going to somewhere that’s ambitious rather than being mid-table or fighting to stay up.
“But I wanted to go to a club with ambition because I’m ambitious myself. So I think it was a good choice.”
Jesurun Rak-Sakyi potential
There is clear potential for Rak-Sakyi to hit the heights, but another season of learning the ropes at the top end of the Championship can certainly help him realise that.
Intense pressure awaits at Premier League level and the loan spell at Sheffield United could show that level immediately, perhaps more so than fighting for a place at Palace this season.
After making his first start in a 1-0 win over Watford, Rak-Sakyi has a huge month ahead in sealing his place in the side.
A clash against Hull City awaits on Friday before he meets up with fellow Crystal Palace loanee David Ozoh and his Derby County team the week after.
With the competition currently at Selhurst Park, this season could be huge in Rak-Sakyi returning to aim for a place in the team.
