A number of Leeds United staff members and players have been quick to congratulate defender Pascal Struijk after he made his first-team debut for the Whites in their 2-0 victory over Hull City last night. 

Marcelo Bielsa's side beat the Tigers at Elland Road yesterday, with an own goal from Jordy de Wijs and Ezgjan Alioski's fourth strike of the season proving the difference.

Struijk was brought on to replace Helder Costa and shore things up for the Whites in the 91st minute.

The defender joined the Yorshire club from Ajax in January 2018 and has been a key member of Carlos Corberan's U23s over the past few seasons but had to wait until now to make his debut.

The 20-year-old took to Instagram to express his pride at making his first senior appearance.

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It appears that Struijk has plenty of fans inside the Leeds dressing room as many players were quick to send congratulatory messages to the defender.

It seems Struijk is popular amongst the coaching staff as well, as Leeds U23s development coach Darren Arnott also commended the 20-year-old.

With Liam Cooper still struggling from injury issues, Struijk may be eyeing up more opportunities in the near future–though he could be facing competition from fellow academy product Olly Casey, who made his debut on the weekend.

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The Verdict

The response to last night's debut suggests that Struijk is a popular and well-respected member of the Whites squad.

The 20-year-old was given a new contract earlier this season, so it appears he is a player that the Yorkshire club believe have a bright future.

It will be interesting to see whether Bielsa looks to use him again during what looks set to be a busy festive period.