Former Leeds United striker Lee Erwin has been released by Lebanese outfit Ahed, as announced on their Facebook page.
The 30-year-old spent two years at Elland Road at the beginning of his career but opted to go abroad after struggling to nail down a regular starting spot in England. Last season, Ahed finished third in the Lebanon Premier Division, with Erwin smashing 17 goals. Nine of those came in 18 league outings, with further strikes in the AFC Cup and the Lebanese Super Cup.
However, the 6ft 2in striker is now looking for a new challenge, having spent the last two seasons away from the UK. A move back to the UK seems unlikely, as in 2023 he was reported as saying the move to Haka in Finland saved his career.
“I’m away from the doom and gloom of the media,” he said.”The social media stuff and the opinions of some fans – it’s a breath of fresh air.
“If I was still in Scotland, it would be the old routine of going home after training not knowing if I would be playing at the weekend. If I’m being honest, I probably wouldn’t even be playing at this point. Moving abroad has saved my career.”
Erwin came through the ranks at Motherwell, getting his first break on loan at Arbroath. After earning Scottish youth honours up to Under 19, he was on the cusp of breaking through. Eight goals in just 11 outings saw his parent club put him in their first team, and after five goals in the SPFL, Leeds swooped.
He signed a three-year deal at the conclusion of his contract north of the border, with compensation due. Given the number nine shirt, there were big hopes for Erwin, but his talent never materialised at Elland Road. He made 11 Championship appearances, but spent time on loan at Bury and Oldham. He scored ten times for the latter, finishing as their leading scorer, but was still allowed to leave by Leeds boss Thomas Christiansen.
His career since has been nomadic. He appeared for Kilmarnock, Ross County, and St Mirren, with a spell at Tractor in the Persian Gulf. He left St Mirren for Haka, the move he claimed saved his life, before the Lebanon switch.
Erwin is now looking for his next challenge, despite winning the Lebanese Premier League and Lebanese Super Cup in 2023.
Writer’s View
An ambitious English side might feel taking a punt on Erwin would be a good option. He’s only 30, available for nothing, and has had two good seasons with Ahed.
He might not be Championship material right now, but if he did desire a move back to the UK, surely a League One side might think him worth a punt? The stumbling block would be those comments about the media. If he’s happy being out of the glare of social media light, which can be brutal and unfair at times, why would he come back?
Also, given how cold this summer is, he might be best staying where there’s some actual sunshine!
Editor In Chief