The Whites recently tied down the services of England youth international Sam Alker, who will remain at Thorp Arch for two more seasons after signing a first professional contract.

Continuing his development, the attacking midfielder debuted for Scott Gardner’s Under-21s last campaign and hopes to build on all the effort that has come up until this point.

“It is something I have worked towards for a long time. I have been at the club for 11 years so to get from where I have come to now is just something I dreamed of as a kid and I can’t wait for the future.

“It has been very difficult, as in the sacrifices made, and there has been ups and downs in the road but it is just every footballer’s journey. It is all about the experience and I am just buzzing.

“My parents and the people who have got me to where I am now, without them, I couldn’t get to certain places. So huge gratitude to them.

“And obviously, my brothers, we were always pushing each other even when it comes to playing football in the garden. It was always a competition!

“And also, the people around me, like the coaches and staff at Leeds, my agent has been really good with me, so I am just excited for the future and excited to take on more on board.”

When asked to describe his style of play, Sam added: “As an attacking midfielder, a bit of a technician kind of player, I like a good dribble, love a good through ball and I am just always wanting to help the team out in any way possible.

“I had a bit of a blip in the road last year because I got an injury to my ankle. So, coming back from that is just something that is difficult to do, especially when all the lads around you are very good players.

“To have come that far from U18s football and getting an opportunity in the U21s is definitely something that is really good for me. I am just buzzing to be where I am now!”