Leeds United midfielder Lewis Baker has been speaking to press ahead of the pre-season campaign and he's got a positive message for Leeds fans.

The midfielder has joined on-loan from Chelsea, but has played the best football of his career for Vitesse Arnhem in the Netherlands.

A disappointing spell at Middlesbrough followed, but the 23-year-old is now at Elland Road with a point to prove.

“A lot of critics say: ‘he has done well abroad but can he do it in England?’," Baker told the Yorkshire Evening Post. “Obviously I know I can and I just want to show everyone that I can."

Baker won the Dutch Cup whilst on the continent, but having made just one appearance for his parent-club, he still feels he has to prove himself in his home country.

“I think it’s a big season for me personally. I think everyone knows that. I don’t really see that as pressure from the outside because I don’t have anyone to compete with apart from myself but I’m a determined lad and I’ve got a point to prove and I can’t wait for the season to start.”

He joined Chelsea as a nine-year-old in 2005 and has spent time with MK Dons and Sheffield Wednesday, as well as Middlesbrough.

He has been capped by England from U17 to U21 level, winning the Toulon Tournament in 2016.

The Verdict

Lewis Baker has the potential to be a really special player and surely he will get the opportunity to prove that this season.

He struggled at Boro but didn't get much game time, plus their approach doesn't always suit a ball playing midfielder who likes to push on to the edge of the box.

At Leeds, he could thrive and if they see the best of him, he'll be a huge asset in the coming season.

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