Leeds United’s U-23 side have completed a brilliant Premier League 2 Division 2 season, that has seen them become the outright champions with a commanding 12-point lead over 2nd placed Stoke City U-23 side. With just 4 losses out of 24, Leeds United U23 side have shown that they are a force to be reckoned with as they secured promotion to the Premier League 2 Division 1.
The U23 side played their last game of the season against Burnley, in an exciting match that saw them win 5-2, thanks to a brace from Sam Greenwood. The English youngster’s brace meant he ended the season as the side’s top goal-scorer with 12 goals. He and Joe Gelhardt, who scored 11 goals this season, were at the forefront in leading the title charge. Having sealed the title last month, Leeds United U23s also secured promotion automatically with two games to spare.
However, it was not an easy ride for the Yorkshire team. Having lost their opening game 4-0 away to Stoke City U23s, not many would’ve thought they would go on to win the title in what was just their first season in the division following the academy’s promotion to a category one status last summer. Some notable stars that stood out in this season include Greenwood, Gelhardt, central defenders Oliver Casey and Charlie Cresswell. Casey and Cresswell were immense throughout the season, keeping 8 clean sheets and just 29 goals. Although the full squad gave their all and were brilliant throughout, these 4 were the star performers for their side.
Credit should be also given to coach Mark Jackson, who replaced Carlos Corberan at the start of the season and led these boys to the title win. In doing so, Jackson’s side became only the sixth U23 or Reserve side in the club’s history to win their respective league. It was a brilliant season all around for the team. The team showed grit and strength and did not drop their heads. Even after the Newcastle away loss, in which they were leading by 3 goals to nil at halftime only to lose 4-3 at full time, they showed great character to go on a nine-game winning streak. That streak also included a famous 7-1 win over Fulham U23s. Leeds United U23s scored 3 or more goals in 10 matches in the season and showed their attacking might.
These boys have certainly got a great future ahead, be it in the Leeds United first team or elsewhere. Their promotion means they will play against the likes of Man United U23s, Man City U23s, and Liverpool U23s next season. They will be facing a step up in terms of quality of opposition, but these youngsters look up for the challenge.
