Preston North End

Lewis Leigh is just beginning his second year as a professional, with his current deal keeping him at Deepdale until 2024.

He was one of the most crucial players for the U19s, often captaining the side during the successful 2021/22 campaign, before injury in the Youth Alliance Cup semi-final against Bolton Wanderers in April 2022 ended his season.

Positioned as a screen in front of the defence, the diminutive midfielder pulled the strings with his impressive long-range passing and relentless tackling, weighing in with three goals, including a spectacular long-range strike in a 7-0 demolition of Fleetwood Town.

Leigh linked up with the senior side during the 2021 pre-season, featuring against the likes of St Johnstone and Bolton Wanderers, and will be hoping for further opportunities to impress manager Ryan Lowe during the 2022/23 campaign.