Shaun Leppard

Shaun Leppard is a Northern Irish defender who developed in Derry City’s youth system before entering senior football with Institute FC in July 2017. At Institute, he established himself as a central defender and made more than 100 appearances across several seasons. His 2023/24 campaign brought the NIFL Championship Player of the Year award, alongside the club’s manager’s, players’ and supporters’ player awards. In summer 2024, Leppard joined Cliftonville FC, fulfilling what was described as a lifelong ambition. His first season was severely disrupted after he suffered a broken leg and dislocated ankle during his European debut campaign. While rehabilitating, he completed a Pharmacy degree at Queen’s University Belfast, graduating in June 2025. Recovered for 2025/26, Leppard returned to Cliftonville’s team and featured in its UEFA Conference League qualifying campaign, including 116 minutes against St Joseph’s.