Lee Grant Explains Latest Huddersfield Town Departure

Huddersfield Town manager Lee Grant has explained that Freddie Ladapo deserves to find a club that can give him regular minutes following the announcement of his departure from the John Smith’s Stadium.

The 32-year-old joined the Terriers a year ago following his release from Ipswich Town. He is a player that is well versed at League One level, having earned promotion from the division three times during his career.

Although he arrived with pedigree, he struggled to nail down a regular spot at the West Yorkshire-based outfit. The attacker made just 21 league appearances last season, the majority of which came from the substitutes bench. The arrival of Joe Taylor and Dion Charles in January also saw his game time hindered further.

Ladapo Contract Terminated

Lee Grant added Alfie May to his attacking options in the summer, which seemed to put the writing on the wall. Although a move failed to materialise during the transfer window, it has now been decided that he can explore options elsewhere after his contract was cancelled by mutual consent.

Speaking to official club media, the manager explained the decision:

“As a Club, we’ve been having honest conversations with Freddie about the likely size his role here for some time, and this mutual decision is the natural conclusion of those discussions. Remaining professional, committed and training well throughout pre-season and the first month of competitive matches, I would have expected nothing less from Freddie having got to know him and worked with him closely in the past.

“It’s no secret that we aren’t currently in a position where Freddie would have received the consistent minutes a player of his stature has earned, and this decision now provides him the flexibility to find a side where that won’t be the case for him. Having introduced 14 new faces in total this summer with many of those operating in the final third, there was always going to be an eventuality where existing members of the squad might have to seriously consider taking their talents elsewhere.

“We wish Freddie nothing but happiness and success moving forward, and thank both him and his representatives for their co-operation, understanding and professionalism throughout this process.”

Writer’s View

This is a decision which suits all parties. Ladapo was facing the prospect of no first team football until at least January, but he has now been given the opportunity to explore options elsewhere. Although he hasn’t set foot on a pitch since March, his availability will have been noted by clubs at the bottom end of League One, as well as several in League Two. Expect him to earn at least a trial pretty quickly.