Lewis Cook delivers honest Leeds verdict ahead of Elland Road return on Saturday

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Leeds United academy product Lewis Cook has told the AFC Bournemouth website that he is unsure what kind of reception he will get at Elland Road, when he returns on Saturday to face the club that he grew up with.

Cook, 25, was a part of a crop of youngsters that broke into the Leeds side along with Sam Byram, Charlie Taylor and Alex Mowatt. Dave Hockaday gave him his debut in August 2014, who endured an ill-fated time in charge.

He clocked up 86 senior appearances for the Whites, until the summer of 2016 – when he was sold to The Cherries. Since then, his career has gone up and down while at the Vitality Stadium. Winning an England cap, to an ACL injury.

Now, six years on, Cook returns to Elland Road for quite remarkably, the first time. When Leeds did gain promotion, Bournemouth were relegated. He gives his verdict on the current Leeds, and anticipates the reception he will get.

“They are an energetic team with a lot of quality. We’re going to have to match that. When you get a win like they had at Liverpool, it’s a big boost,” Cook said. “I’m looking forward to it. This one for me will be especially exciting.

“Going back to where it all started. I’m not sure what kind of reception I’ll get but the atmosphere will be electric. Leeds are in the Premier League for a reason. Their fans have loved the past few years being back in there.”

Cook unsure what reception he will get at Leeds, first return since exit

After suffering his ACL injury in 2021, Cook has finally re-established himself in a Bournemouth side that are in a similar position to Leeds this season – aiming to avoid a relegation scrap. Bournemouth sit in 14th place.

With Bournemouth losing three Premier League matches on the spin, Leeds should be confident. The added noise of the home crowd, and coming into the game off the back of a win over Liverpool. But the pressure is still on.

Lose against Bournemouth and the pressure goes right back onto Jesse Marsch. However, a win, and it is a real sign that Leeds are pulling in the right direction. Paul Merson has predicted a five-goal thriller.