Leeds United were thrilled to welcome youngster Sam to Elland Road on Wednesday evening, a special guest from the Leeds United Foundation who was on hand to help the club celebrate International Day of People with Disabilities.

The 11-year-old was invited earlier in the week through a video message from his favourite player, Joe Rodon, and Sam who has cerebral palsy was incredibly excited to represent the Under-12s Pan-Disability Football programme that is delivered by the club's official charity, for the Premier League fixture against Chelsea.

Sam's mum Emma spoke to us after the match and said: "It’s been just a wonderful experience for Sam, he’s been on cloud nine all week and hasn’t stopped smiling! Meeting Joe Rodon and all his Leeds United heroes - who he worships and adores, has given him such a huge boost and it really does help to cement his pride in himself as a disabled football player and fan on International Day of People with Disabilities."

Sam loves being a part of the pan-disability team, taking part in weekly training sessions and matches, and making big and important tackles in his role as a centre-back. You can learn more about Sam and his life with the Leeds United Foundation here.

International Day of People with Disabilities takes place every year on the 3rd December, recognising both visible and invisible disabilities whilst promoting the importance of inclusion in society and life in general. The annual awareness event offers a great chance for people to celebrate and support those with a disability, along with increasing understanding around everyday challenges they may face, that others will never have to worry about.