Another exciting Leeds United prospect has seen his future secured.
Leeds United have tied promising young defender Jacob Howard down to a three-year contract following his Under-21s breakthrough.
Howard featured 16 times for the U21s last season, initially making the step up to Scott Gardner’s side aged 16. Before turning 17 in March, the centre-back faced senior opposition in the form of Halifax Town and Gateshead in the National League Cup, a test of his physical capabilities that was passed.
An England youth international at Under-17 level, Howard also stood up to the test of facing top-level European opposition during Leeds’ Premier League International Cup campaign. He will continue to develop in West Yorkshire until 2029 after signing his first professional deal.
A club statement said: “Leeds United are pleased to announce Academy defender Jacob Howard has signed a first professional contract with the club. Penning a three-year deal, the central defender will remain at Thorp Arch until 2029 as he continues his development in West Yorkshire.
“Aged just 16 at the time, Howard broke into the Whites’ Under-21s team last campaign under boss Scott Gardner and made 16 appearances in the heart of defence, after impressing in younger age groups. Prior to turning 17, the defender got a taste of senior football with starts against FC Halifax Town and Gateshead in the National League Cup and also tested himself against some of Europe’s best emerging talent in the Premier League International Cup.
“Howard has been capped six times by England at U17 level, notably scoring in a friendly with Australia last November before captaining the Young Lions in a March victory over Estonia. Everyone at Leeds United would like to congratulate Jacob and we are excited to see his development across the coming seasons.”
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Reflecting on his contract, Howards said: “It is an honour. I am just proud and excited to carry it on into the new season. It is a dream come true, obviously, to support the club and live and die by the club.
“I signed when I was 10, in the U11s, so I have been here a while now. My dad and family have been a big help on this road to get to this place. And obviously as well, all the coaches that have taught me what they know have been massive. Hopefully I can make them all proud.
“I just play with my heart on my sleeve and I will give it everything - passion, leadership to hopefully get on that pitch.”
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