Leeds United Under-21s Kick Off 2026/27 Season Against Stoke City

Leeds United Under-21s begin their 2026/27 campaign tonight with a Premier League Cup trip to face Stoke City Under-21s, and the first teamsheet of the season is already pinned up.

Robbie Cook gets the gloves and the first competitive start of the new term in goal.

In front of him, Leeds go with a back three of Jacob Howard, Louis Enahoro-Marcus and Jonny Howson, tasked with setting the platform for the evening in Newcastle Town. Out wide, the flanks belong to Freddie Lane and Louis Philpott, offering width and running on either side.

Ollie Pickles leads the side as captain from midfield and lines up alongside Sam Chambers in the engine room, with responsibility to link play and protect that back line.

Ahead of them, Harvey Vincent, Sam Alker and Carrick Njinko form a lively-looking front three as Leeds look to start their group campaign with a statement.

On the bench, head coach options include George Kenyon, Jacob Render, Loui Whitehead, Josh McDonald, Kenneth Mensah and a Trialist, giving Leeds flexibility if the game tightens or opens up.

Kick-off at Newcastle Town is at 7pm, as a new season starts for the club’s next generation.