Sheffield United hand trial to Dutch defender after announcing signing of two youngsters - including former Leeds United man

Noah van Geenen, a 20-year-old Dutchman, played 90 minutes in United's U23 defeat away at Burnley yesterday.

Primarily understood to be a centr-half, van Geenen can also operate at right back and played alongside a fellow new face in Kamarl Grant, a 17-year-old whose signing from Croydon FC was confirmed before the game.

Grant impressed on trial and joins United's academy alongside midfielder Connor Leak-Blunt, also aged 17.

Leak-Blunt arrived at United from Leeds, where he only signed a professional deal last July.

When he signed for Leeds, Leak-Blunt said: “I’ve been at the club a long time now and to sign my first professional contract is a great feeling.

“It’s good to progress as a young player coming through the ranks, so I hope I can get off to a good start as a pro.

“If you work hard, your dreams come true and I’m really excited to see what the future holds.”

United's U23s lost 2-0 to their Burnley counterparts, with a goal in each half from Rob Harker and Bobby Thomas at Curzon Ashton.

Reece York saw a goal disallowed for a foul on the Burnley goalkeeper, while substitute Sammy Ompreon was fouled when through on goal later in the game - leading to a straight red card for Clarets' Oliver Younger.

United's U23s return to action next Monday, when they host Crewe Alexandra at the Proact (7pm).