Jake Leake: I hope the loan spell can bring the best out of me

Scunthorpe United loan signing Jake Leake hopes his time here at the club can bring the ‘best out of him’, following his temporary switch from Hull City.

The 19-year-old is the next player to link up with new boss Jimmy Dean, in advance of Friday’s National League showdown with Barnet at Glanford Park, joining until the end of the 2022-23 campaign.

Leake - who was rewarded with a new contract at the MKM Stadium in May 2022 - insists he is excited to get going here in North Lincolnshire, ahead of our clash with the Bees later this week.

"(I am) really happy to get it done,’’ he told Iron Player.

"Its been something that ive wanted to do, as I know there has been interest for quite a while now. I am just glad to get it over the line.

"I joined Hull City at Under-12s. I have been on loan last year at Boston United which I hope stands me up really well. Hopefully I can come here and do the same again."

Turning out 11 times for the Pilgrims last season, Leake helped the side finish seventh in the National League North, before returning to the Tigers earlier this summer.

Now keen for the next step in his development, the teenager believes making the loan switch is the next natural step in his progression as a professional.

"That was one of the things were looking for," he added.

"That next step up again and I know it will be a challenge. It's one I hope that can bring the best out of me.

"It was something I really enjoyed actually (his time with Boston). The physicality of the game definitely compliments me, playing for points and that motivation is hopefully going to help bring the best out me."

With United sharing some close connections with City over the years, Leake told of his conversations with former player and caretaker boss Andy Dawson, prior to making the switch from across the River Humber.

"I had a chat with Andy Dawson and he had nothing but good words to say about the club," Leake said. 

"Also Woody [Harry Wood] from his time here last year and he said he really enjoyed it and improved him. Hopefully I can now do the same."

Eager to make his Iron debut later this week against high-flyers Barnet, the 19-year-old told of his prior research, as he hopes to get his first taste of action on Friday evening.

"From what I have seen on social media the fans look brilliant in the last few games," Jake said.

"I am just really excited to go out there and see the fans. I have seen and have watched them a few times so hopefully that's the same come Friday night. I am available and I will do the best I can for the team."

See much more from Jake Leake on Iron Player.