White signs deal at Elland Road

Leeds United young full-back Aidan White has signed his first professional deal with the club.

The 17-year-old academy graduate has agreed a contract until 2012.

White told the club's official website: "I'm delighted to sign. Things have happened really quickly and hopefully I can go on from here."

He made his debut against Crystal Palace in the Carling Cup in August and has gone on to make nine first-team appearances this season.

White joined Leeds as an eight-year-old schoolboy and, after eight years with the academy, joined on a scholarship last season.

He said: "There's a few lads who have come through the academy who are doing fantastically well.

It's great to see so many young players coming through the ranks from the Academy here

Leeds boss Gary McAllister

"Hopefully I can push on as well, get better, and improve as a player."

White's progress from academy to first team mirrors the progress made by fellow teenager Fabian Delph, who signed a four-year deal earlier this season.

Manager Gary McAllister said: "We're really pleased. Aidy is another young player who is learning his trade with the academy who has a great future ahead of him.

"He got his opportunity earlier in the season and he did well. We're pleased with his development and the progress he is making.

"It's great to see so many young players coming through the ranks from the academy here, and it's a real credit to the club and is good for the future."