safc.com caught up with Michael Ledger to get to know a little bit about the makings of the youngster...
Position: Central defender
Nationality: English
Main assets you bring to the team?
Defending is obviously my primary focus on the pitch but I would also say reading the game, I like to make tackles and I’m 100% committed all the time.
Greatest aspiration?
When I was named captain of the youth team under Elliott Dickman. It was a proud moment because I wasn’t expecting it and to be captain of that team in the FA Youth Cup was something I will never forgot.
Hardest trainer?
George Honeyman works hard. He is always staying out doing extra bits and he has got a very good attitude to everything he does.
Best goal you have scored?
There haven’t been many! The most important one I have scored was last season at the Stadium of Light when I managed to score a header and we won 1-0 over Liverpool, so that was special.
Best game you've played in?
That one has to be the pre-season game at Hartlepool United when there were like 3,000 Sunderland fans. It was special for myself and something I really want to get more opportunities to savour again in the future.
As a local lad, what does it mean to represent Sunderland AFC?
It’s unbelievable. I have supported Sunderland since I was a little boy and to think where I started and where I am now it’s something I never really thought I would get to. I love it, I live it and it’s something I really hope to continue.
What does Sunderland AFC mean to you?
It’s everything to me. My family are Sunderland fans and I was bought up supporting the club. I was about three or four when I went to my first game and from there I have always supported the club. I got picked up when I was six and it’s something that will always be close to my heart.