"We'll win the next one, daddy": Little Leeds United fan walks out with his heroes after cancer remission

Four-year-old Eddie Franks, who was diagnosed with leukaemia towards the end of last year, was a guest at Elland Road courtesy of Adam Forshaw.

The midfielder first met the youngster in December, paying a visit to the family home to give them a boost during Eddie's gruelling rounds of treatment.

A picture of Eddie turning his nose up at a visit from Manchester United's Ashley Young at Manchester Royal Children's hospital went viral on social media after dad Lee posted it online.

Despite Saturday's end result, the Wigan match was a double celebration for the family, as they recently received the news that Eddie's cancer had gone into remission.

Lee, 32, was concerned that the occasion might be overwhelming for his son, who struggles with loud noises.

So he prepared him by showing him clips of games to get him used to the atmosphere at Elland Road.

"He absolutely smashed it," said Leeds born and bred Lee, who now lives in Littleborough, Lancashire. "We're so proud of him."

Eddie took the experience in his stride, meeting the players and even saying hello to Pablo Hernandez in Spanish.

The family, including mum, dad, grandma, granddad and auntie, were treated to hospitality in the Centenary Pavilion before meeting their entire first team and taking their seats in a South Stand Box.

Eddie looked on the bright side despite Leeds losing 1-0.

Lee said: "I was sat sulking to myself and Eddie came over, put his hand on my knee and said 'don't worry, daddy - we always win the next one'."

Things are looking up for the Franks family, with mum, Steph, due to give birth in a matter of weeks.

"Eddie has responded well to the treatment and the cancer is currently beaten," Lee said. "But he still has three years of treatment. We stay tough and roll with the punches."

Leeds boxer Josh Warrington has also been in touch to offer his best wishes

There's more Leeds excitement to come too for Eddie, with a special visit to Thorp Arch in the pipeline.

Lee praised staff at Leeds United for the way they have supported the family.

"It's beautiful when something like this comes together and works," he added.