Exclusive:'I was impressed' - Leeds United icon Tony Dorigo hails Callum Mills after bright showing in Wrexham friendly
Former Leeds United star Tony Dorigo has assessed Callum Mills’ first senior outing for the Whites
Leeds United prospect Callum Mills has drawn praise from Whites icon Tony Dorigo following a bright showing in his first senior appearance.
Mills was a surprise inclusion in the starting XI named by Daniel Farke for Leeds’ recent friendly against Wrexham in Florida.
The 17-year-old midfielder only penned his first professional contract at Elland Road earlier this month, but was thrown into the XI in Tampa last weekend.
He was tidy in possession and showed a willingness to get on the ball at every opportunity in the 3-2 defeat. It was not a completely polished performance, although it was strong enough to leave former Leeds star Dorigo impressed.
Tony Dorigo’s assessment of Callum Mills
Speaking to The Yorkshire Post on behalf of New Bingo Sites, who showcase where you can play online bingo, Dorigo said: “Callum Mills, I was impressed with him. First 10-15 minutes, he hardly got a touch of the ball, but when he did, he looked very comfortable.
“He looks like he's still got a bit of growing to do and bit of strength and muscle to put on, but you can see, when he gets that year or so, when he bulks up, [he will improve]. He's certainly comfortable and technical, picked out a few passes, a few shimmies in that midfield area.
“I think that was the most difficult position, where Callum Mills played, but I thought he showed flashes of really good ability.
“These are the opportunities that don't come along very often. Pre-season is the time to shine and show the manager you want to stick around and be a part of the first-team squad if at all possible.”
Callum Mills’ Leeds United progression
Mills has featured regularly for Leeds at under-18 level and even made 14 appearances for Scott Gardner’s under-21s last season.
After penning a two-year deal at Elland Road earlier this month, the midfielder said: “I just feel very grateful to be given the opportunity, I am very proud to represent the club and I am glad to continue my journey here.
“I got welcomed in straight away. It was a welcoming club and has been as I have progressed through the age groups ever since joining.
“I feel like I have just got a whole new level of confidence in myself. Training-wise, I feel like I have shown my ability.
“That has taken over to the pitch as well. I am feeling more confident in showing what I can actually do on the pitch.
“I feel like I am quite a creative player. I don’t like playing simple all the time but I just do what I think is right on the pitch.
“I would just like to thank my family who have been with me the entire journey and the coaches who have helped me progress my game a lot.”