2023/24 has been a been a breakthrough season for Archie Gray, the 17 year old making his debut in the opener against Cardiff City, before playing 28 of Leeds United's 30 games under Daniel Farke.

Impressing coaching staff and fans alike, Gray was rewarded this week with a new contract, that will see the young star commit his long-term future to the club.

From leading out the side as a mascot in 2011, to signing his latest contract, we take a look at Gray's journey at Leeds United so far...

1. LEADING LEEDS OUT AT 6 YEARS OLD

In a glimpse of what was to come, six year-old Archie Gray walked out onto the Elland Road pitch, alongside future Leeds' teammate Sam Byram, in our 2012 Capital One Cup quarter-final clash against Chelsea.

Chelsea would win 5-1, Luciano Becchio opening the scoring for the Whites, but the memories of meeting his idols would leave a lasting impression on the young star, paving the path to the Leeds United first-team over a decade later.

2. FIRST GOAL AGAINST AN OLD ENEMY

Two days after his 16th birthday and having been with the U23s for just six months, Archie would continue to impress following his fast tracking through the club's various age groups.

Elland Road, over 10,000 fans, 2-0 up against fierce rivals Manchester United's U23s; goalkeeper Ondrej Mastny skewed a clearance straight into Gray's path. Urged on by the home fans, the teenager 30 yards out, floated a wonderful shot into the top corner of the net, before celebrating in front of the Jack Charlton Stand.

3. BREAKING RECORDS BEFORE EVEN STEPPING OUT

In December 2021, at the age of 15 years and 281 days, Archie became the club's youngest ever player to appear in a senior matchday squad, after being named as a substitute by Marcelo Bielsa for our Premier League fixture against Arsenal.

Gray would be named on the bench a further five times across the course of the 21/22 season, including the season finale against Brentford, in which a 2-1 victory saw Leeds retain their place in the Premier League.

4. LIFTING SILVERWARE AT ELLAND ROAD

Archie's progression with the first team would continue under Jesse Marsch, Javi Gracia and Sam Allardyce during the 2022/23 season, the young midfielder making the matchday squad on a further six occasions.

Whilst the first team took up the majority of Archie's time, he was still able to play 11 times for the U23s, as they lifted the 22/23 Premier League 2 Division 2 Playoff trophy. The midfielder played the final seven games, including the 2-1 semi-final win over Aston Villa and the 3-0 final win against Nottingham Forest.

5. SENIOR DEBUT, PLAYER OF THE MATCH PERFORMANCE

17 years of age, Archie Gray made his debut in the 2023/24 season opener against Cardiff City at Elland Road. Operating like a seasoned pro, Gray played 89 minutes, making 84 touches and completing 54 passes, during a performance which fans voted him Player of the Match.

The side drew 2-2 in the Championship clash, Gray playing in a central midfield role, a position he would occupy for the first 10 games, before a move to right back, where he has predominantly played ever since. 

Gray has since picked up two further Player of the Match awards against Bristol City and Middlesbrough, whilst also getting his first assist in the 2-0 win over Blackburn, when he set up Crysencio Summerville for his goal in the 75th minute.

6. SIGNING ON FOR THE LONG TERM

28 games into his senior career with Leeds United, Archie Gray extended his stay with the club on Tuesday 16th January 2024, saying "Supporting Leeds and following the club my whole life, it's just a dream come true."

“It means a lot to me and my family, the club trust me and trust my family and hopefully I can repay it."

Leeds United next host Preston North End at Elland Road, with Gray hoping to break the club record for most starts by a player before the age of 18, which he currently equals.

MORE PHOTOS FROM ARCHIE'S TIME AT THE CLUB