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Leeds United will on Friday night play in their first FA Youth Cup final since winning the competition in 1997 — having eliminated Liverpool in the quarter-finals then edged a seven-goal thriller against a Millwall team who had shocked Chelsea in the previous round.
Here, we introduce the new generation of youngsters at the Yorkshire club, a formidably talented group who take on Manchester City in Friday's final, trying to emulate 1997 Leeds heroes Jonathan Woodgate, Harry Kewell and Paul Robinson…
GOALKEEPERRory Mahady
Fond of reminding team-mates he’s already played at the Euros twice, saving two penalties in one match for Scotland Under 19s against France last summer. A truly modern goalkeeper who arrived from Celtic in July 2022, he doesn’t lack confidence, spraying the ball 50 yards to either flank and often found near the halfway line when Leeds attack.
Joe Richards
The longest-serving member of this side, having first arrived at the club’s Thorp Arch training base as a six-year-old, playing in the same age group teams as Archie Gray. Energetic full back, likely to make telling interventions in both boxes.
Dan Toulson (capt)
Mr Versatile. Played at centre half in the earlier rounds against Norwich and Brighton, before switching to left back, and has appeared in central midfield for Leeds’ Under 21s. Recognised as a natural leader by coaches and team-mates for the way he conducts himself and promotes Leeds’ high-energy style — and for that reason he wears the armband.
Alfie Cresswell
Younger brother of first-teamer Charlie and seemingly destined to follow him and their father Richard as an England Under 21 international. Previously played in midfield, but switched positions with Rhys Chadwick for a match as an Under 14 and has remained at centre back ever since. Accomplished on the ball, physically imposing and excellent in the air.
Reuben Lopata-White
Began his academy days as a winger
