Alfons Sampsted has confirmed that his loan move to Birmingham City will become permanent after an impressive display in their 2-1 victory over Stevenage.
The Icelandic defender, who has had to wait for his opportunity, finally made his first league start for Blues on Tuesday night, earning praise from manager Chris Davies and playing a key role in the win.
Speaking after the game, the 26-year-old revealed that his future at St Andrew’s is already decided.
“Yes. I don’t know if I can say anything, but yes,” Sampsted replied when asked if his loan deal will become permanent.
Fighting back from setbacks
Sampsted has had to be patient for his chance at Birmingham, having spent much of the season watching from the sidelines. With injuries to Ethan Laird and Taylor Gardner-Hickman, the Iceland international has finally been given the opportunity to stake his claim for the right-back role.
His attacking instincts and high-energy approach suited Davies’ system perfectly, as he explained after the match.
“First and foremost it was a great performance from the team and I managed to put my own mark on it with the penalty that I got and the energy that I brought in.
“Most of my career I’ve played as a right full-back that loves to push high and this (system) is really tailored for that. The manager allows me to drift inside at some points as well which suits me.”
Despite his limited game time this season, Sampsted has earned respect within the squad for his professionalism and attitude while waiting for his chance.
“You control what you can control. In my situation I’ve had some injuries, I’ve been out of the squad, it’s been an uphill battle but it doesn’t stop me from doing all the physical bits and all the tactical bits with the team.
“I would like to build on this. Hopefully I’ve put down a performance that creates a headache for the manager. I’m ready.”
From Iceland to England: Sampsted’s journey
Sampsted began his career with Icelandic club Breiðablik before spells in Sweden with IFK Norrköping, IF Sylvia, and Landskrona BoIS.
His breakthrough came in Norway with Bodø/Glimt, where he played a crucial role in their historic 2020 title-winning campaign. A move to Dutch side FC Twente followed in 2022, before joining Birmingham City on loan in August 2024.
Now set to remain in England permanently, Sampsted’s focus will be on cementing his place in Davies’ side as Birmingham push for a strong end to the season.
Writer’s view
Sampsted’s rise from squad player to first-team contender at Birmingham is a testament to his perseverance. His attacking threat, combined with defensive reliability, makes him a valuable asset in Davies’ system.
For Birmingham, securing his permanent signing is a smart move. Right-back has been a problematic position due to injuries, and Sampsted has shown he has the ability to make it his own.
