Leeds United Under-21s midfielder Kenneth Mensah recently signed a first professional contract at the club, penning a deal until the summer of 2028.

The 17-year-old has committed his future to the Whites in a two-year agreement after making 22 appearances for the Under-18s last term, as well as cameos for Scott Gardner’s Under-21s.

“It feels amazing,” Mensah said after extending his stay. “It feels really great. I am really proud of myself from where I came from.

“My parents supported me when I was younger, all the travel and expenses, and now it looks like I have paid it all back so, yeah, I am really happy.”

Adding on the backing from his family, the midfielder said: “The support that my parents gave to me, it meant a lot.

“They came from basically nothing, to then helping me, even when they had work, they would take me to football straight after which I really appreciate. It drives me every single day.

“I think over the year, I built my confidence over time. I have been playing and training with the U21s and U18s. I have also scored a couple of goals as well.

“I am very grateful for getting help from the coaches and opportunities given to me. When an opportunity comes, you have just got to take it.”

Mensah has also made appearances for his national side, featuring four times for Italy at youth level. On that experience, he commented: “It was very good.

“When I got the first call, I was very impressed. I was nervous but then as soon as I got there, all my nerves calmed down. I showed all my ability on the pitch and what I could do.”