No excuses from Kightly

Leeds teenager Lewis Walters has signed his first professional contract with the club, penning a two-year deal.

Striker Walters, 17, who is top scorer this season for United's Under-18 team, was thrilled to agree terms.

"It's one of the best feelings I've ever had," he told the club's official website.

"It couldn't have gone any better for me really. I joined the academy quite late and wasn't expecting to get a club, but Leeds came in and I got a scholarship and I thought the only thing I can do is keep kicking on and try and get a pro contract, and now it's a dream come true.

"I'd like to try and be involved with the first team. I've got to keep doing what I'm doing, keep improving and try and get more goals.

"When I look at Sam Byram, I played with him last year, he has done amazing for himself and that's what I'd like to do next season."

The 27-year-old has made 21 Premier League appearances this term, with his last two being back-to-back starts, and he is looking to build on that.

"It's been an up and down season for me though for sure, because I haven't managed to nail down a regular spot in the team," he told Stoke's website.

"That hasn't been down to injury, it's been for other reasons.

"I've had no injuries this year and I haven't missed one single training session yet this season, which is quite surprising to be honest, because I have had a few problems in my career.

"I thought I started the season well, scored a couple of goals, and then lost my place.

"Since then I have struggled to get back into the team really, but hopefully with my injuries well and truly behind me, I can push on and get back to playing to the level that I know I am capable of."