Niall Huggins

Niall Joseph Huggins (born 18 December 2000) is a professional footballer who plays as a left-back for EFL League One club Sunderland. Born in England, he represents Wales internationally.

Club Career

Leeds United

After winning his division with under-8s junior side Heworth, he joined Leeds United's academy in 2009, alongside Kane Rogerson and future professional Jack Clarke. He graduated through their academy and, alongside Clarke, signed a two-year scholarship with Leeds United in May 2017. Upon signing his scholarship deal with Leeds United, he stated that he was "looking forward to the next two years", adding that he will be "working hard and putting all my effort into, hopefully, getting a 'pro' deal at the end of it". Following his two-year scholarship, he signed a year-long professional contract with Leeds in May 2019. In December 2020, he signed a contract lasting until the end of the 2022–23 season. Huggins made his professional debut as a 54th-minute substitute for Ezgjan Alioski in a 4–2 defeat at Arsenal on 14 February 2021.

Sunderland

On 20 August 2021, Huggins joined EFL League One side Sunderland on a four-year deal. It was reported by BBC Radio Leeds that he joined the club on a free transfer, but the deal included a sell-on fee.