The majority of Leeds United’s first team squad have returned from their summer break this week, as pre-season begins with testing and fitness programmes.
Preparations for the 2026/27 Premier League campaign began at Leeds Beckett University on Monday and the players were reunited with each other and staff.
Speaking exclusively to LUTV about his summer, looking back on last season, and ahead to the new campaign, was captain Ethan Ampadu.
“It’s good to be back, I feel good and well rested,” Ampadu began.
“I think it's good to reflect at the end of the season to see how far we have come and see what we've achieved. But also, I think as professionals we always set our standards so high.
“It's one of those where you reflect, but you also want to build. So, it's finding that right balance to appreciate what you've done and the hard work that got you there, but to also know what to do next.”
With the hard-work now fully underway, the skipper was asked about the intense running the squad faces, and whilst admitting with a smile they don’t look forward to it, he found the positives!
“It's one of those things in football, you're going to do it, so you might as well just get on with it! Everyone dreads it, but I think we've got to try and enjoy it and have fun whilst doing it.
“It's easier said than done. But I think that goes back to that sort of team spirit. During those hard times in pre-season, if we can have a bit of fun whilst running, I think it sets us up for a great position.”
Finally, on travelling to the United States of America in the coming weeks, the midfielder added: “It's massive. We know Leeds fans everywhere. Obviously with the World Cup and being in America now and the growth of football out there, I'm sure it is going to get even bigger.
“So to go out there just after a World Cup, hopefully the fans aren't bored of football and we can give them something to be excited about, to look forward to ahead of the season coming. It's going to be good and it's going to be fun, so yeah, we're excited for it.”
