Neil Redfearn believes the homegrown players within his squad are the "identity of the club" and says keeping them at Elland Road is part of the long-term plan.

Four Academy graduates started in last Saturday’s 1-0 home win over Millwall, with goalscorer Alex Mowatt lining up alongside Sam Byram, Lewis Cook and Charlie Taylor.

"It’s really important for the club and the identity of the club," said Redfearn.

"It’s something that supporters can relate to - they like to see their own.

"The young players that have come in have been outstanding. It’s a real testament to the Academy."

Having moved to the club’s Academy as Under-18s coach in 2009, Redfearn has played a major role into developing the youngsters into first-team players, and he sees them as key parts of the club’s future.

"Straight from the off, I think the president has expressed his desire to build," said the head coach.

"He wants the club to build for the future and have these young players as the base.

"I think they are wise words and music to the ears of the people at the football club. I’m sure that will be the case.

"They’re young boys and are enjoying playing their football.

"They love playing for Leeds United, you can see that. They’re very together as a group."

Cook, who only celebrated his 18th birthday earlier this month, is the youngest of the four, but Redfearn says he carries himself and plays with the maturity of someone way beyond his years.

"As a person, he is very level-headed. You wouldn’t think he has just turned 18," said Redfearn.

"He’s good a real good outlook on life and how things should be done. His parents have got to take a lot of credit for that.

"He’s a real grounded boy. He’s very driven, he’s never satisfied with what he sees as his best – he always wants to do better."