Ben White reflects on 'amazing' Elland Road return after 'special' year with Leeds United

The former Leeds loanee returned to Elland Road for the first time.
Ben White in action for Brighton against Leeds United. Pic: Bruce RollinsonBen White in action for Brighton against Leeds United. Pic: Bruce Rollinson
Ben White in action for Brighton against Leeds United. Pic: Bruce Rollinson

Ben White has admitted it was 'absolutely amazing' to return to Leeds United with Brighton & Hove Albion on Saturday afternoon.

The 23-year-old defender turned midfielder spent last season on loan at Elland Road, where he played every single minute of United's Championship title-winning campaign.

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Leeds' attempts to sign White last summer on a permanent basis were thwarted by the Seagulls before he penned a new improved contract on the south coast.

The former loanee enjoyed a winning return with Graham Potter's men, seeing Neal Maupay's 17th minute strike earn all three points for the visitors to win their first match in 10 top flight outings.

White reflected post-match on his return to LS11, describing his campaign under Marcelo Bielsa as a special one in West Yorkshire with Leeds ending 16 years of exile outside the Premier League with his help.

"Last year was so special for me [while playing at Leeds]," White said post-match.

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"To come back today was absolutely amazing. We're down there in the league so every point matters. It's been a positive week for us so to get the three points today was amazing.

"Leeds are always running. They don't stop. The way they play is amazing to watch but the boys dug deep and ran as much as they did. They did well.

He added: "I don't really remember the goal to be fair - it was a bit of a tap-in in the end but any goal that helps us win games is a good one.

"We had to stay positive and not let them score. It's the Premier League so every game is tough. We have to pick up points when we can.

"We need to push on now and get some more points to push up the league."