Leeds United captain Ethan Ampadu makes young fan’s dream come true with special gift
She attends every match with a handwritten message for the captain
A young Leeds United fan has been rewarded for her unwavering support of Ethan Ampadu after receiving his match-worn shirt following a landmark appearance.
Lilian Atkinson never goes to a Leeds United match without a handwritten message for the captain.
Accompanied by her mum at every game, the young supporter has become known for her homemade signs, including one earlier this year wishing the Welsh international a happy birthday.
She has continued the tradition at every match, with her handwritten messages becoming a familiar sight at Elland Road.
On Sunday, her dedication was rewarded when Ampadu handed her his shirt after Leeds United's 1-1 Premier League draw with arch-rivals Manchester United at Elland Road.
Dominic Calvert-Lewin's second-half equaliser earned Daniel Farke's side a point in front of a packed home crowd after Bryan Mbeumo had given the visitors the lead.
The occasion made the gift even more special, as it came on Ampadu's 100th game as Leeds United captain.
The Wales international became the youngest player to reach the milestone since club legend Billy Bremner, underlining the impact he has made since taking the captain's armband in 2024.
For any Leeds United supporter, receiving a player's shirt is a special experience.
But for Lilian, receiving the shirt worn by Ampadu in his landmark 100th game as captain makes it a priceless keepsake and a memory she is unlikely ever to forget.