Leonard Chibueze Duru (born January 12, 2005) is a professional soccer player who plays as a right-back for EFL League Two side Barrow on loan from EFL Championship club Blackburn Rovers. Born in England, he is a youth international for the United States.

Club career

Duru was part of the academy at Manchester United before joining Blackburn Rovers as a U10.[1] On July 7, 2021, he signed a scholarship contract with Blackburn and was promoted to their U23s.[2] He signed his first professional contract with the club for one year on May 25, 2023.[3] On May 13, 2024, he extended his contract again until 2026 with an option for another year.[4] He made his senior and professional debut with Blackburn in a 6–1 EFL Cup win over Stockport County on August 13, 2024.[5]

On January 9, 2025, Duru joined League Two side Barrow on loan for the remainder of the season.[6]

International career

Born in England, Duru is eligible to play for England, Nigeria, and the United States.[7] He is eligible for the United States via his American mother who is from Philadelphia.[8] In October 2024, he was called up to the United States U20s for a set of friendlies.[9]

References

  1. ^ "Blackburn Rovers U18 star Duru on target against former club Manchester United | All Nigeria Soccer". www.allnigeriasoccer.com.
  2. ^ McDougall, John (July 7, 2021). "The 10 Blackburn youngsters aiming to become the next Nyambe or Lenihan". Lancs Live.
  3. ^ FC, Blackburn Rovers (May 25, 2023). "Pro deal for Duru!". Blackburn Rovers FC.
  4. ^ "Exciting Blackburn Rovers youngster sets big target after penning new deal". Lancashire Telegraph. May 14, 2024.
  5. ^ "Blackburn Rovers player ratings as Sam Szmodics and John Buckley stand out". Lancashire Telegraph. August 13, 2024.
  6. ^ "Leo Duru Signs". www.barrowafc.com. January 9, 2025. Retrieved January 9, 2025.
  7. ^ "Nigeria considering approach for Blackburn Rovers youngster". Lancashire Telegraph. July 13, 2021.
  8. ^ "After impressing with the U.S. U-20 team, Duru aiming for more in 2025". American Soccer Now. December 18, 2024.
  9. ^ "Mitrović Call 22 Players for Friendlies Against 2025 U20 World Cup Hosts Chile". YANKS ABROAD. October 5, 2024.
Allikas: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Leo_Duru
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