Lewis Cook says campaign has been 'beyond wildest dreams'

Lewis Cook says this season has been “beyond his wildest dreams” having become a regular in the Leeds United first team.

The England U18s midfielder gave another assured display as he helped his side to defeat Championship leaders Middlesbrough 1-0 on Saturday lunchtime, setting up Alex Mowatt for the game’s only goal in the third minute.

Speaking exclusively to TheFA.com following the clash at The Riverside, Cook said: “I’ve really enjoyed it and have grown more confident with each game I’ve played.

“Once you have that confidence, you can relax a little and you start playing your football.

“After a few games you settle in and feel like you’ve been playing there for years – it’s been a really good experience.”

Having helped his country to win the European U17s Championship last summer, the 18-year-old was brought into the first team squad at Elland Road when the squad returned for pre-season training.

Having made his debut on the opening day of the season against Millwall, Cook has gone on to make over 30 appearances so far for the Yorkshire side, something which was above all his expectations.

“I was really excited when I went away with the team in pre-season, and I didn’t expect to play to be honest. I wouldn’t have dreamt I’d have played as many times as I have and I’m really proud of myself and all my family are too.

“The club has settled down. We are playing really well and the manager Neil Redfearn has played a big part in that. He’s come in and got us gelling really well. We’re all comfortable on the ball and we’re getting a few wins now.”

Having helped Leeds continue their recent run of good form in the north east, Cook is eager to see that continue until the end of season, but he still has eyes on his prospering international career too.

Cook helped England U17s win the Euros last summer

With Neil Dewsnip’s side set to take on Switzerland next month at Walsall, Cook is hoping his performances will earn him another opportunity to pull on the Three Lions.

“I always love going away with England and always will,” he said.

“Seeing all the lads is really good for me, and hopefully if I’m picked, we can do well against Switzerland next month.

“They are a very good team, but our group has always had to play tough sides with what we achieved in the Euros, so they are always great occasions.”

With only two more international breaks left before the end of the campaign, Cook is already looking ahead to next year as he aims to continue his progress by breaking into the England U19s squad.

“With these tough games for the U18s, it’s just the preparation that we need. We haven’t played that many games together this season, but the ones we have, they’ve all been against sides of a high standard.

“As a group, we all want to continue on and try and push into the England U19s next season, and try and kick on again in the Euros.”

Tickets for the game at Walsall on Saturday 28 March are priced £3 for adults and £1.50 for concessions.

Call 01922 651 414/416 or visit Saddlers.co.uk to secure your seat now.