Leeds United defender Kitching returns to Town on loan

Liam Kitching is back at Harrogate Town. Picture: Matt Kirkham

The 18-year-old played his part in helping Simon Weaver’s side to promotion from National League North last term, making 10 appearances and scoring three times.

“We’re delighted to have Liam back,” the Town boss said.

“He is mobile and strong and offers options in the defensive positions and did a lot of good things last season. We’ve been after him all summer.

“He’s a Harrogate lad, so it’s in his heart to do well for this club and he’s been enthusiastic about coming back here all along.

“Leeds were happy for him to return because of how much he improved last time he was here. We’re also close by so they can see how he’s doing and they know he’ll get games in a team that likes to play football.”

Harrogate-born Kitching was named in Championship outfit Leeds’ first team squad for last season’s FA Cup Third Round tie with Newport after signing a two-year contract in July and featured regularly for the Whites’ under-23 side.

His arrival will provide competition for places in the Town squad as they prefer for their first ever season in the National League.

He is the third central defender to have joined the Sulphurites this summer following the capture of Callum Howe from Port Vale and ex-Northampton Town man Kelvin Langmead.