Leeds United v Barnsley: White torn over derby day clash at Elland Road

Aidan White in action for boyhood club Leeds United.

The 26-year-old began his career at Elland Road rising through the ranks at Thorp Arch and went on to make 85 appearances for his boyhood club, notching his only senior goal against Everton in a League Cup clash.

Following his release White went on to have a short spell at Rotherham United before settling at Barnsley initially on loan before joining for an 18-month spell.

The defender though only notched a total of 33 appearances for the south Yorkshire club during an injury hit period but was part of the side, led by current Leeds boss Paul Heckingbottom, who secured promotion back to the Championship from League One.

White, who was also a part of the Tykes side who defeated Oxford United at Wembley in the 2016 Johnstone Paint Trophy final, is currently without a club as he recovers from a hip injury having not played since January 2017.

The full-back though admits he'll be glued to Saturday's fixture at Elland Road as two of his former teams meet but refused to pick a winner.

"I'm a Leeds lad so I have to sit on the fence regards the game on Saturday," White told the official Barnsley website.

"But obviously I hope the Reds [Barnsley] stay up. It's a great club and I had such a great time there, made some long-lasting memories.

"It won't be easy on Saturday for either side. Leeds have been in poor form themselves and they'll need the victory to try and end the season on a positive note. Derby games are always a battle anyway so form becomes irrelevant.

"Adding 'Hecky' into the mix too, it sets it up for a great occasion. Like I say, Leeds is my club so I'd prefer the Reds to get a point there and then win the rest!"

White also revealed that he is rehabing with the Reds as he continues his comeback: "I'm starting back running now, I'm probably a few weeks away, at last, from getting back fit."

"It's been a long time out and it's not easy, but I have been speaking to a few interested parties and hopefully I'll have myself fixed up and be raring to get back out there next season."