Lewis Cook says his stunning long-range equaliser in Tuesday night’s 1-1 draw with Fulham will encourage him to shoot more often when presented with an opportunity in front of goal.

The 19-year-old’s unstoppable 35-yard strike, his first league goal for the club in 66 Championship appearances, ensured a share of the spoils at Elland Road after Tom Cairney had given the visitors a 17th-minute lead.

“I just got the ball, turned and thought I’d have a shot,” said Cook. “It flew into the top corner and I was really happy with it.

“I think I should have had a shot earlier but passed the ball. I’m trying to shoot a bit more and I hope I can score a few more.

“I’ve done quite a lot of shooting in training because I still think I need to improve with my final ball and end product.

“I’m happy I got the goal. Normally, I’d choose to pass it from there, but something just told me to shoot. I need to try it a bit more now I think.

“Hopefully I’ll score a few more like that. I’ll keep practicing.”

Reflecting on the draw with the Cottagers, Cook felt United could well have snatched a winner in the second half and says the team are now looking to make sure the season ends on a high note with 14 games remaining.

“I thought their goal came a little bit against the run of play,” he said. “After we scored, it boosted everyone and we played a lot better in the first half.

“We were looking for that second goal in the second half but it just didn’t come. We had a couple of chances to score but it wouldn’t go in.

“Defensively, I think we’ve been really good of late. If we can score a few more and create a bit more in the final third, I think we can really push on.

“We’re trying to end the season on a positive, for the fans, for ourselves and for the staff.

“We want to play well in the remaining games and see where we can end up.”