Leeds United youngster Crysencio Summerville has revealed he cannot go out for a meal in the city without being mobbed by the club’s fans.
Summerville arrived at Elland Road from Feyenoord’s youth set up last season as the Whites looked to add talent for the future.
This summer saw him promoted to Marcelo Bielsa’s first-team squad, and he’s already made his debut in the Premier League in the 1-1 draw with Newcastle back in September.
He’s since made a further five appearances in all competitions, featuring in the EFL Cup against Fulham and Arsenal as well as substitute appearances against the likes of West Ham, Southampton and Wolves.
He’s slowly building his way up the ranks, but it seems that hasn’t stopped Leeds fans from loving him already.
“When you walk through the city, everything revolves around Leeds United,” he told NOS.
“Every home game is sold out. The fans are so fanatical.
“If you are a player, everyone recognises you in the city. I can’t have a quiet meal or have a drink.”
It’s been a steep learning curve for the 20-year-old since his arrival a Leeds last summer, with a place in the first-team squad an unexpected bonus just a year into his time at the club.
It’s clear that the club believe they have a talent on their hands, with Bielsa not the kind of manager to hand out chances to those he doesn’t believe in.
His appearance tally is only likely to keep growing before the end of the season, and Summerville is more than convinced he made the right move.
“To be honest, I didn’t know much about Leeds at the time either,” he added.
“But when I started to look into it I saw that it is a big club. Their story was also very good. I’m a feeling person, so I wanted to grab this opportunity with both hands.
“Everyone is allowed to have their opinion. And when I look back now, I also see that it is a big step. But me and my family knew that this was the right step. I’m also glad I was able to put my feet up.
“I can’t quite believe it yet. That I can stand here already… It all goes so fast. I’m playing against players I play with on FIFA.”
“After a match, I can think: wow, I just stood next to Paul Pogba or Cristiano Ronaldo. But I can’t enjoy it for too long, because I have to push on and show myself. I work really hard every day to get the best out of myself to reach the highest level possible one day.”
