Leo's Debut Delight

Leo Snowden is never going to forget Oxford United’s 5-0 win over Chelsea under 21s in the Bristol Street Motors Trophy.

The young striker became United’s youngest ever player, the first 15-year-old to play for the First Team, when he came on as a substitute last night.

“I think you are always going to be nervous when you make your debut but as soon as the Gaffer told me to walk up and get on the pitch it was more ecxitement than nerves” he told iFollow.

“I wasn’t sure I would get a chance to play but that wasn’t a priority. I was just happy to be on the bench in the first place, it was really an honour. I thought there was maybe a small chance I might get on and then I got my chance with ten minutes to go.

“It took ages to get my first touch but then when I did I managed to do something positive with it. The senior player were very warm and welcoming. The first 20 seconds I was all over the place and a bit lost but Ruben Rodrigues talked to me and said ‘come on Leo, get on the left’ and helped me settle and focus on playing. They were all very positive and they knew it was a big day for me so they all tried to help me through it.

“I have been with Oxford for about two and a half years now. I was playing Sunday League and then Oxford were looking for a striker and I came on trial. I spent six weeks on trial and didn’t do very well actually! But they gave me a chance and I have enjoyed every moment. I have scored a few goals and have been getting opportunities for the under 16s, 17s and 18s and now with the First Team as well.

“Tomorrow I am back in school and am going to have to catch up on some homework. I think there will be a lot of people congratulating me and I know I will get support from my friends and family. It’s more of a cricket and rugby school really! I’ll just go in, do my work and then look forward to the weekend and playing for the under 18s.

“Tonight was just the first step for me. I am hoping that in four or five years time I get loads more opportunities.”

See the full interview plus the thoughts of Craig Short and James Henry in iFollow right now.

And if you want to see Leo and his under 18 teammates in action then come along and watch them in FA Youth Cup action when they welcome Sutton United to Court Place Farm in the second round on Friday 17th November (7pm)

United's Youngest Ever Players