Kilkenny, who turned 25 last Sunday, is out of contract at Elland Road in June but has already begun initial discussions about a new deal.

And the Australian schemer told the Yorkshire Evening Post he wants to remain at Leeds.

"I really want to stay here and feel honoured to play for the club," he said. "I want to let that be known.

"I've enjoyed my time here and feel that I've played regularly over the past three years.

"I've made nearly 150 appearances for the club now and that's really a very good record over three seasons. Hopefully, the club can sort something out."

Kilkenny, who was part of Australia's provisional 50-man Asian Cup squad, also revealed he's desperate to play in Leeds' January FA Cup clash with former club Arsenal but may miss out due to national team commitments.

The Brisbane-raised midfielder came through the Arsenal academy as a youngster from 2002 and 2004.

"It's (Arsenal) a special one for me, although I don't know if I'll be playing yet because I may be going away with Australia. So I don't know yet," he said.

"It would be a choker to miss that but, at the end of the day, it's an honour to represent my country. But obviously I want to play for Leeds as well."