United defender Tom Lees admits he can't wait to return to pre-season training to continue developing his trade in a squad that will be pushing for promotion.

The 21-year-old signed a new four-year deal earlier this week after being rewarded for a season that saw him make 44 appearances and establish himself as a regular in the United first team.

"The gaffer said at the end of the season we would do something and he's been really good," said Tom. "He went about it quite quickly.

"I've been to see him a few times and the way that he's speaking and the things he's saying about moving forward…I liked what I heard. I'm looking forward to seeing how that progresses now and looking forward to next season.

"It's nice to have the feeling of someone coming to you and offering a new deal. He's been a big influence in the time he's been here. He's not been here long, but I feel I've learnt a lot and I like his eagerness for next season. He has some nice ideas for the way he wants us to go when we come back in July.

"I've learnt a lot about attitude and mental attitude towards the game. I think there will be a real positive and winning mentality when we come back and I'm looking forward to pre-season."

The season proved a breakthrough year for Tom at Elland Road, having made over 100 appearances elsewhere during loan spells the previous two seasons.

"This time last year I'd finished at Bury and was getting ready for pre-season not knowing what was going to happen, but I thought I'd give it my all, try and get in shape and try and get in the team," he explained.

"In the end I played a lot of games, but overall we didn't do very well and coming back in July we want to get rid of that feeling.

"It should be an exciting time hopefully and I'm looking forward to next season. We have some good quality players here.

"The manager spoke to the players at the end of the season and he obviously wants to make some additions and I'm looking forward to see what he does. With the goals he's set for what sort of squad he wants, it sounds good."