Leeds United Apprentice Simon Lenighan has signed his first professional contract with the Club.
The Under-18’s skipper follows in the footsteps of fellow Academy youngster Sam Byram, who signed his first professional deal last week, signing a one-year deal with the option of a further year.
The 18-year-old made 29 appearances at the heart of the midfield for the youth team squad last season, scoring four goals, and he is one of a number of players who has been rewarded with a professional contract after a campaign which saw the youngsters finish runners-up in Academy League D.
“I’m very happy,” said Simon. “You never really know what’s going to happen until they tell you so you just have do your best.”
“The season went well and it went well for the team so it was good. The performances of the team helped a lot of people, everyone played for each other.”
Simon, who admits his highlights were “being the captain of Leeds United under-18s and getting a professional contract” is now focusing on next season when he returns to Thorp Arch.
“It’s about relaxing now for a bit then getting back into pre-season at 100 per cent,” he said.
“I’d like to play regular and hopefully force my way into the first team squad. It’ll be a challenge, but I’m always up for a challenge.”
