Willy Gnonto and Tarik Muharemovic send messages to Callum Mills after Leeds U21s hat-trick

Willy Gnonto and Tarik Muharemovic have lauded Leeds United Under-21 midfielder Callum Mills.

The 18-year-old made history in the EFL Trophy after scoring a hat-trick against Barnsley as Scott Gardner's team secured a 4-3 victory on 22 September.

With the never-before-seen talent making his mark with the young Whites, it will be interesting to follow his career path.

Mills only signed his first professional contract at Thorp Arch in July after breaking in Gardner's U21s last season.

The versatile youngster can play across the midfield or on the flanks.

Mills was part of the West Yorkshire outfit's squad during pre-season and has gained their attention with his hat-trick in the Jersey Mike's Trophy.

How Willy Gnonto and Tarik Muharemovic have responded to Callum Mills heroics

At 18 years and 3 days, Mills became the youngest player to score a hat-trick in the Football League Trophy.

The youngster took to Instagram on 23 September to share a carousel of images from the game as he celebrated his stunning accolade.

Muharemovic replied to the post with "baller", while Gnonto just wrote "Millsyyyyyyyyyyyyyyy".

Jayden Lienou, Alfie Cresswell and Rhys Chadwick were among the others who sent Mills encouraging messages.

Who can step up from academy for Daniel Farke at Elland Road

Daniel Farke has a solid squad at Leeds this season, with the owners backing the manager with impressive summer signings.

There's plenty of competition in the Whites' squad now, but some youngsters could make the step up if needed.

As the West Yorkshire outfit go deeper into the season, fatigue will surely play a part, and the German manager may want to call up some academy players to freshen the squad.

Mills has shown he has the potential to become the next big thing at Elland Road.

Cresswell made the bench towards the end of the previous campaign and featured during pre-season and his versatility in defence and midfield is certainly valuable.

Lienou has impressed with the U21s, and if Farke needs cover at left-back at any point this season, it wouldn't be surprising to see the talented Welshman get the nod in the first-team setup.