A former youth international has been forced to hang up his boots at just 21 years of age because of a heart problem. Morten Spencer began his career at before joining in 2019. He spent five years at Elland Road and featured regularly at youth level, earning a professional contract in 2021.

Spencer was highly regarded at Leeds but never played for the first team before moving to last summer. He also won two England caps at under-15 level before switching his international allegiance to Norway. The midfielder would have been hoping to break into the Rams squad this season, but has instead been forced into an early retirement.

Taking to , Spencer revealed that he would be unable to continue his football career due to medical concerns, admitting that he was 'heartbroken'.

"Heartbroken to be saying this," he said. "I will be retiring from professional football due to a cardiac problem I can't carry on with. All I've ever known is to kick a ball and I have learnt everything from the game.

"I'm thankful and proud of what I have achieved. I will never forget the memories I have and have created along an amazing journey. Football is in my DNA and I will continue to support everyone who helped me along the way.

"I want to thank everyone who has stuck with me during this tough period and everyone who has helped me during my career."

Several former Leeds players, including the likes of Crysencio Summerville, Archie Gray and Leif Davis, were among those to show support for Spencer in the comments.

It comes just weeks after another young player was forced to retire because of a rare medical condition. Cork City teenager Ben Dumigan had been undergoing medical tests ahead of a January move to Hoffenheim when the problem flagged up.

He was diagnosed with hypertrophic cardiomyopathy, which causes abnormal thickening of the heart muscle. The club stated that while Dumigan will be able to live a long and healthy life, it would not be safe for him to play football any more.

Cork City's head of academy Liam Kearney said: "Ben's talent as a footballer was clear for all to see in his time with us, and that was reflected in the international call-ups and the fact that he was on the verge of a move to a club of Hoffenheim's stature.

"Ben has our absolute support as he leaves his playing career behind him, and we will continue to do anything we can to help him to adjust to this very significant change in his life."