Tom King is one of the brightest young prospects knocking on the door of the first team from John Redford’s U19s Academy, and is an able understudy to Lee Kelsey between the sticks for the team.

Tom is a composed, agile ‘keeper, who has benefited from working at the Leeds United Academy. He has put in some outstanding performances with the U19s in the Northern U19s Alliance, which has been a major factor in the team enjoying a 100% start to the season.

With Lee Kelsey in fine form for the first team, this season will be one of gradual integration into the first team squad for the youngster. However, Tom is an outstanding prospect who is determined to take his opportunities with both hands.

Date of birth / age: 15/6/94 (17)
Year joined the Colls: 2009 (Academy)
Previous clubs: Castleford Town, Glasshoughton
Position: Goalkeeper
Footballing ambition: To strive to get to the top of the game
Job: MOT Assessor
Family: Mum, Deborah: Step-father, Simon: Sisters, Jessica and Charlotte
Biggest influence in football career: Rudi Coleano (coach at Leeds United), John Redford
Greatest character in the Colls dressing room: Me, obviously
Nicknames: Kingy, TK, Plant Pot
Team you support: Leeds United
Favourite player: Ben Foster
Why?: Great agility & quality distribution
Favourite player of all time: Peter Schmeichel
Why?: Big presence, greatest goalkeeper ever, even though he played for the Scum
Favourite manager: Don Revie
Best game ever watched: Leeds United 1:4 Arsenal – Thierry Henry scored 4!
Pre-match superstitions: I always like to tap the cross-bar before the game
Anyone you would like to thank for help with career: My coaches, especially Uncle John Redford for his help in getting me this far
Favourite TV programme?: An Idiot Abroad
Favourite film?: The Shawshank Redemption, Dead Man’s Shoes
Musical tastes – favourite bands/artists?: I would say Take That but I’d look a right prat, so Dub Step and Electro
Favourite food?: Spaghetti Bolognese
Favourite car?: My funky moped
Embarrassing facts or moments?: When I got lobbed in a County Challenge Cup game from the half-way line, arguing with Wrighty’s dad at the time (he was telling me to get back, but I though I knew better!)