Ryan Leonard

Ryan Ian Leonard (born 24 May 1992) is an English professional footballer who plays as a defender or midfielder for Millwall.

A midfielder, he graduated through the Plymouth Argyle Academy to make his senior debut in March 2010, following which he spent time on loan at Weston-super-Mare of the League South and Tiverton Town of the Southern Football League. In July 2011, he moved to Southend United, and after establishing himself in the first team in the 2013–14 season, he won the club's Player of the Year Award in 2014. He helped the club to secure promotion out of League Two in 2014–15.

Club Career

Plymouth Argyle

Born in Plympton, England Leonard was a graduate from Ivybridge Community College, he signed for Plymouth Argyle in June 2001 as a schoolboy. He progressed through the club's Centre of Excellence to be rewarded with a two-year apprenticeship at the end of the 2007–08. Regarded as one for the future. His elevation to training regularly with the club's first-team coincided with the return of former player Paul Mariner to Plymouth Argyle and, despite still being an apprentice, he made his first-team debut for the club on 27 March 2010 against Blackpool at Home Park.

Loans to Weston-super-Mare and Tiverton Town

He joined Weston-super-Mare on loan in December 2010, where he made five appearances in the Conference South.

In January 2011, he joined Tiverton Town on loan for one month, which was then extended until the end of April.

Return to Plymouth Argyle

He was released by Plymouth Argyle at the end of the 2010–11 season.

Southend United

Leonard signed a one-year deal with Southend United on 27 July 2011, with the option of a further year after impressing on trial. Leonard scored three goals during Southend's pre-season, including one from inside his own half.

On 7 March 2014, Leonard signed a new three-and-a-half year contract extension with Southend. At th