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This is the Louth Branch website. Always Leeds always loyal ! Edited by Gerry Cunningham
The Rant page is open for business. Just click on rant and get it off your chest. Already some good ones starting to come in. Just send me an e-mail and I'll put it up for you. Unfortunately time prevents me from completing any magazines. Season to date 2008/09 Season 2008/09 June to November 11th. Nov 11th. Derby Co 2-1 Leeds Att : 18,540 (3,416 Leeds) CC Ankergren, Richardson, Parker (White 75 Mins), Telfer, Michallik, Douglas, Robinson (Beckford 64 Mins), Kilkenny, Snodgrass, Delph, Becchio.Lucas, Prutton and Hughes. Gary McAllister resisted the temptation of starting with Beckford but Kilkenny displaced Howson in midfield. Nov 19th. Malcolm Christie could be thrown a football lifeline by Leeds United manager Gary McAllister. The former Derby County and Middlesbrough striker, who has more than 30 Premier League goals to his name, has had his career curtailed by a string of injuries over the last few seasons. He is now out of contract but has spent the last few months training with Leeds United and playing in the reserves, and McAllister is considering offering the 29-year-old a 12-month contract at Elland Road.The manager told the Daily Star Sunday: "Malcolm's made me think and there's a decision for me to make about him now. Nov 9th. Leeds replay against N'hampton as Sixfields stadium is on Tuesday, November 18th. If they win they will play against Non-League Histon on the weekend of November 29th. Nov 7th. Leeds United 1-1 Northampton Town. FA Cup 1st Round. Leeds: Ankergren, Richardson, Michalik, Telfer, Parker (White 83), Howson (Showunmi 78), Douglas, Delph, Snodgrass, Becchio, Robinson. Subs Not Used: Lucas, Prutton, Kilkenny, Hughes, Webb. From Yorkshire Post -Leeds United's manager loves the FA Cup, but the FA Cup has Nov 5th. Ian Harte is back with Leeds after linking up with Gary McAllister's side in order to maintain his fitness. The 31-year-old made over 200 appearances for the Whites between 1995-2004 before departing for Spanish outfit Levante. The former Republic of Ireland international returned to English football with Sunderland, but has been without a club since the summer after being released by Roy Keane's side. Harte was handed a surprise run-out in a Leeds shirt when he featured in a behind closed doors game against Nottingham Forest on Tuesday. Surely left back is an area where we are well covered in with Parker, White and Sheehan all fighting for that position and all three decidedly quicker than Harte. Nov 1st Cheltenham 0-1 Leeds. United: Ankergren, Richardson, Michalik, Telfer, Parker, Kilkenny (Prutton 71), Douglas, Delph, Howson (Robinson 55), Beckford (Snodgrass 80), Becchio. Subs: Lucas, Oct 30th. Speculation in the press continues to link our midfield starlet, Fabian Delph with moves to Arsenal, Liverpool, Sunderland or Everton (which ever one takes your fancy) in a £6M deal in January. Oct 28th. Northampton face Leeds Utd in the first round of the FA Cup. The game will be played on Friday November 7th and will be live on Setanta Sports. "It is obviously a difficult draw for us," said Stuart Gray. "In any draw you want a home tie but that isn't the case and we face a trip to Leeds United. It is one of the hardest ties we could have got at this stage of the competition but we have shown already this season that we are more than capable of going to the bigger venues and doing well." "We won at Bolton, drew at Leicester and took Sunderland to penalties so it is a game that we can look forward to with confidence." Gary McAllister said that “our home form is as good as anyone’s and we are confident at home to anybody”. Oct 28th. Southend 1-0 Leeds United. Att - 10,132 (1988 Leeds) Leeds: Ankergren, Richardson, Michalik, Telfer, Parker, Kilkenny (Robinson 66), Howson, Douglas, Delph (Snodgrass 66), Beckford, Becchio. Subs: Lucas, Prutton, White. United travelled to Roots Hall hoping to avenge the 0-1 defeat last season. They didn't start well as ex Leeds left back, Dan Harding scored after 18 minutes to put the Shrimpers deservedly ahead. After half an hour Leeds finally got their passing game going with Howson having a couple of decent efforts. Delph forced the keeper into an excellent save from 25 yards but at the other end Laurent was causing Leeds all sorts of problems. The first half finished 1-0 to the home side. Oct 28th. Brighton & Hove Albion have signed Leeds United midfielder Bradley Johnson on loan until 3 January 2009. The 21-year-old is eligible to make his debut against Leicester on Tuesday. Johnson joined Leeds in January from Northampton and featured in their play-off final defeat to Doncaster in May but has played just once this season. Manager Micky Adams said: "We're delighted Bradley's agreed to join us and I am sure his arrival will improve the Oct 25th. Leeds 3-0 Walsall 22,422. Leeds: Ankerg Oct 25th. Nothing will give Walsall striker Michael Ricketts more pleasure than scoring Oct 24th. More clean sheets for Bulls than Leeds By Organic Bull - " Oct 21st. Leeds v L Orinet. Att - 18,990 Parker, Michallik, Telfer, Howson, Douglas, Kilkenny (Robinson 85), Delph, Becchio and Beckford. Subs Ankergren, Snodgrass, Prutton, White. : Leeds faced the prospect of losing three October 18th. Millwall 3-1 Leeds United. Leeds: Lucas, Richardson, Michalik, Marques, White, Hughes (65 mins Snodgrass.) Kilkenny (65 mins Showunmi) Douglas, Delph, Beckford, Becchio. Subs: Ankergren, Prutton, Howson, The omens we Sunday Oct 12th 2008. Bohemians X1 4-3 International X1. Turning back the years at Up to date League One Stats. Oct 11th. Leeds United 3-1 Brighton. Lucas, Richardson, Michalik, Marques, White, Hughes, Delph, Kilkenny, Douglas, Beckford, Becchio. Subs: Ankergren, Prutton, Howson, Robinson, Snodgrass. Att - 22,726 Gary McAllister made six changes from the side that went down to Yorkshire rivals, Rotherham in the JPT, and he was also dealt a blow losing influential defender, Paul Telfer with a groin injury..Brighton came in to this game unbeaten in all four away League One matches this season with credible wins at Southend and Crewe mixed with decent draws at Northampton and Yeovil. They set their stall from the outset with five across midfield, and Leeds were conscious that thy had not defeated the Seagulls at home in the league in the past two season. Kevin Connolly, Ben Connolly, Paul Minogue, and Ivor Martin (normally four Jonahs) were representing the Louth Branch and they witnessed a super Leeds performance. The cynics among us will point to another late goal conceded. The realists will point to three more goals from the two best strikers in the division, with some us having backed Beckford at 11/1 to be League One's leading marksman. Leeds attacked Brighton from the word go and were unlucky when Beckford got behind the defence to flick over Kuipers but the ball ended up just wide of the post. Minutes later, Livermore who lasted about as long at Leeds as some of Dennis Wise's passing performances, cleared one of the goal line. Leeds pressed and pressed and Beckford, Becchio and Richardson from 30 Oct 8th. JPT Rotherham United 2-4 Leeds United. Lucas, Hughes Parker (Sheehan 57 mins), Michallik, Rui Marques, KIlkenny, Prutton, Howson, Robinson (Becchio 70 mins), Snodgrass, Showunmi (Beckford 70 Mins) Att 4658 (1,836 Leeds)The Whites made eight changes from the weekend defeat to Peterboro. Leeds with nearly 2,000 fans for a JPT tie live on Sky made all the early play. On eight minutes, Snodgrass rattled the crossbar form a 25 yard freekick with the keeper beaten all ends up. A few minutes later, Warringtom made the first of his many saves from a good Robinson effort. On 18 minutes Sharps put Rotherham ahead from their first attack after he got his head to a throw in before Michallik and easily beat the out of position Lucas. Leeds were deservedly back on level terms on 31 minutes following a super Leeds attack, Howson slotted home following good work from Prutton. Just before half time Leeds let Reuben Reid take on half the team before Hughes syched him down on the box. Lucas saved the penalty, and if I'm being honest should have held on to it. Rotherham who had the gods smiling on them most of the night saw the rebound fall to Hudson, who prodded home to make it 2-1 to the hosts at half time. Defensive errors marred Leeds performance which at times portrayed some super football. Eight minutes of defensive madness after half time cost Leeds the tie. First Robinson didn't track back and Rui Marques (who had a nightmare on Sat v Peterboro and looks a shadow of the player he was early last season) lost his marker, Broughton who headed home from eight yards. Marques was Oct 4th Peterboro 2-0 Leeds United Leeds: Ankergren, Richardson, Marques, Telfer, White (Parker 74), Howson (Snodgrass 56), Douglas, Delph (Kilkenny 67), Robinson, Beckford, Becchio. Subs Not Used: Prutton, Hughes. Att: 13,191 Ref: Lee Probert (Wiltshire). Leeds United's winning run fell short of a seventh match after a controversial goal and a rare lack of conviction helped bring about their demise at London Road. A 47th-minute strike from George Boyd and Craig Mackail-Smith's injury-time finish saw Peterborough United through their first ever league game against Leeds, but the visitors were justified in asking questions of referee Lee Probert at the end of their second defeat of the season. Boyd's close-range finish divided the two teams until Mackail-Smith scored at the end of a windswept contest, but a display of mediocrity from Leeds also created a slight sense of injustice. Dominic Green appeared to handle the ball in the build-up to the opening goal, and McAllister's regret over his side's uninspired performance may have been tinged with dissatisfaction at Probert's apparent oversight. He was, however, too magnanimous to show it. The controversy was befitting of a day which started badly for United's manager and ended with a blunt display that contrasted with every other which had helped to build the club's sequence of six successive wins.Yesterday's loss was their first in any competition since Oldham Athletic took three points from United's opening home game of the season. McAllister took a forthright approach to Peterborough, retaining the deliberately attacking line-up which prised a 1-0 victory from a character-testing game against Hereford last weekend, but his chosen team failed to survive the pre-match warm-up. A broken finger forced the retirement of goalkeeper David Lucas, ending abruptly his productive period as McAllister's first-choice ahead of Casper Ankergren. Ankergren had been named among the substitutes and was hastily promoted 20 minutes before kick-off. Oct 1st Jacques Maghoma played 81 minutes of the reserve clash with Hartlepool. Leeds are having a look at the attacking midfielder from Tottenham in training this week. A strong Whites side were beaten 2-1 in the fixture with Bradley Johnson netting their goal.. Oct 1st. Leeds United have been fined an initial £7,500 for using an unlicensed agent when buying striker Anthony Elding from Stockport County in January. An independent Regulatory Commission hearing also hit the club with a further suspended fine of £12,500 and warned them as to their future conduct. Leeds previously pleaded guilty to the Football Association charge. But the club stated that no payment was made or is alleged to have been made to the agent involved, Lorenzo Paolo.The suspended fine will be activated should the club be found guilty of any similar breaches of FA agents regulations before 1 September 2010. Elding has since left Elland Road to join Crewe Alexandra after making just nine appearances for Leeds.Ken Bates could whinge for England. Personally, I think heads should role for a mistake that could cost Leeds potentially £20,000 or the cost of 500 of his precious Members cards being flushed down the toilet. Sept 29th. Leeds United 1-0 Hereford. Leeds United: Lucas, Richardson, Marques, Telfer, White (Hughes 80), Delph, Douglas, Howson, Robinson (Snodgrass 84), Becchio, Beckford. Subs (not used): Ankergren, Prutton, KilkennyAtt 25,657. As Jimmy Greaves Sept 29th. Leeds got the draw that Ken Bates didn`t want in the Carling Cup, Brighton or Derby County away! Bates was hoping for a big name at Elland Road, said in an interview on the official website in the week "What we don`t want is Brighton away!' Leeds actually meet Brighton in a League fixture at Elland Road on the 11th October, when the clubs last met at the Withdean Leeds won 1-0 with a late goal from Tresor Kandol. The last time Leeds went to Pride Park to play Derby was on the final day of the relegation season in 2006/07 when Derby won 2-0. The Brighton v Derby game is to take place on the 4th November so the fourth round tie date will be arranged with Leeds opponents once that game has been decided. The rest of the fourth round ties are due to take place week commencing 10th November.9th. Still, no reason why we shouldnt make the last eight ! Sept 25th Att - 14,599. Leeds 3-2 Hartlepool. Ankergren, Hughes, Michalik, Huntington, Parker, Snodgrass 20 September 2008 Carlisle United 0 Leeds United 2 Leeds: Lucas, Richardson, Marques, Telfer, White (Howson 55), Hughes, Kilkenny (Snodgrass 75), Douglas, Delph, Beckford, Becchio (Robinson 90). Subs: Ankergren, Prutton. Att : 12,138.Our Chairman (Louth Sept 13th. Swindon Town 1-3 Leeds United. Att - 13,001 Lucas, Richardson, Telfer, Marques, Sheehan (sen off 9 mins), Hughes, Kilkenny (Prutton 58 mins) Douglas, delph, Beckford (Snodgrass 86 mins), Becchio (58 mins) : Subs unused Martin and Robinson. Booked : Marques, Kilkenny, Beckford and Delph. This was a terrific performance by United and Gary Sept 12th. Leeds United are investigating the buy back option for Thorp Arch. Leeds were forced to sell Elland Road and Throp Arch under the previous Krasner led consortium for £11M. Bates now heavily criticises this. Hindsight is a marvellous thing. Whilst I wouldn't defend Krasner and co, at least they put in a sell in clause on James Milner which may bring back up to £1.2M. I don't hear Bates applauding this. Have we a sell on clause on Aaron Lennan ? I don't think so, but I may be wrong. Leeds pay back £1.6M in rent with that deal which rises now by 3% each year. Elland Road can be bought back up until 2029, but Thorp Arch must be purchased back by October 2009 and Bates is now focusing all resources on this now. I receive each of the home match programmes to my door. I will be updating you with Mr Bates' nuggets of wizdom going forward, all of which are still not off the wall, but some are from the planet Pluto. Sept 11th. Gary McAllister has confirmed out-of-contract Malcolm Christie is back training with Leeds, although he insists the striker is not on trial. The Whites had a look at the former Sept 8th. Gary McAllister has admitted he will not be rushing into the loan market unless the right type of player comes along. Leeds turned in a supreme performance on Saturday as they defeated Crewe 5-2 to climb up to sixth in League One. McAllister does not feel there is Sept 8th. Leeds next JPT match away to Rotherham on Wednesday, October 8th will be televised live by Sky. The kick off is 7:45PM. Sept 6th. Leeds United 5-2 Crewe Alex. Att - 20,075 Lucas, Richardson, Michalik, Telfer, Sheehan, Hughes (Howson 64), Kilkenny (Robinson 64), Douglas, Delph, Beckford, Beccio (Snodgrass 69) Subs: Ankergren, Prutton, Leeds United produced a vintage performance to hammer Crewe Alex by five goals to two with the two consolation goals coming in injury time. Four out of the five goals were superb strikes as McAllister was able Sept 6th. Leeds were paired with Rotherham away in the next round of the JPT. Sept 3rd. 2008. Leeds have pleaded guilty to a Football Association charge of using an unlicensed agent - and may be slapped with another points deduction. Leeds, who have stressed that no payment is alleged to have been made to the agent involved, were hit with a 15-point penalty at the start of last season after the Football League found them guilty of breaching its insolvency policy. Luton Town were this season docked 10 points by the FA Sept 2nd. Leeds 2-1 Bradford City. Leeds team: Lucas, Richardson, Huntington, Marques, White, Prutton, Kilkenny, Howson, Snodgrass, Showunmi (Becchio 29 mins) and Robinson. Subs: Ankergren, Beckford, Beccio, Delph and Johnson. Sept 1st came and went and Seb Carole was released due to mutual consent and Chris Ovington moved on a months loan to Guisley. Leeds made a mistake by not nabbing Dougie Freedman who was signed by our rivals, Southend on a permanent transfer. Bad mistake by Leeds. Aug 31st.Leeds United 2-2 Bristol Rovers.Att -21,024. Lucas, Richardson, Huntington, Michalik, Johnson, (Showunmi 66), Hughes (Howson 66), Douglas, Kilkenny, Delph, Beckford, Becchio (Snodgrass 75). Unused subs - Ankergren and Prutton. Paul Telfer and Aug 30th. Leeds has drawn fellow League One side Hartlepool United in the third round of the Carling cup. The tie will take place at Elland Road week commencing September 22nd. Leeds may have been hoping for a money spinning tie against Premiership opposition, but may be happier now that they have a super chance of progressing further in the competition. Hartlepool will be no easy opposition though after putting out Premiership West Bromwich Albion in round two Aug 29th. James Milner moved to Aston Villa for a fee of £10M rising to £12M. Leeds will initially receive £1M as a sell on clause and let's hope that funds are provided to McAllister to line up Dougie Freedman before deadline day.
Aug 28th. Gary McAllister finally got his man by presenting Paul Telfer with a one year contarct at Elland Road. Telfer relayed : "I could have stayed down south but when Gary asked me if I wanted to join up for training in pre-season, it was a massive incentive for me. "Six months ago I would not have expected this but I feel fit and I enjoyed pre-season. I'm looking forward to having another year now. I looked around at the crowd for the first home game of the season and that shows you waht kind of a club this is". Telfer had a terrific match against C Palace this week and at the age of 36 appears to be drinking from the fountain of youth. Paul Telfer’s award of a Leeds United contract at the age of 36 is down to the Strachan factor. That’s the opinion of Leeds manager Gary McAllister who believes Celtic boss Gordon Strachan has greatly influenced Telfer’s prolonged career. Former Scotland international Telfer, who has been operating on a match-to-match deal at Leeds after a successful trial in pre-season, made his first start in the 4-0 Carling Cup thrashing of Crystal Palace on Tuesday night and has now been awarded a contract until the end of the season. Along with several other players drafted into the side against Palace, the defender hopes to keep his place when Bristol Rovers visit Elland Road on Saturday. McAllister, a team-mate of Strachan’s when Leeds won the League Championship in 1992, said: “Paul has invaluable experience at top level. I don’t think he would disagree that he has gone through his career without a great deal of success but when Gordon Strachan gave him the opportunity to win trophies at Celtic he proved he was up to it. “There is no higher level than performing in front of a Glasgow Celtic crowd. He has picked up some good things from Gordon. Paul played with him when Gordon was 38 or 39, I played with Gordon late in his career and so did Gary Speed, who is still playing. I think we have all taken a leaf out of Gordon’s book. Aug 27th. Two midfielders gone. Gillingham have tied down Curtis Weston on a two-year deal following his release by Leeds United. The former Swindon Town player had been nearing the conclusion of his loan spell at Priestfield, but will now be staying permanently.The 21-year-old made just one league start during his time at Elland Road, but has featured in all three of Gillingham's League Two games this season. Leeds United have released midfielder Robert Bayly. The 20-year-old Irishman has had his contract terminated by mutual consent as he does not figure in Gary McAllister's first-team plans. Bayly made three first-team appearances for Leeds, including his full debut in the Championship which ended with a sending off on the final day of the 2006/07 season. Bayly spent part of pre-season ahead of the current campaign with Darlington but was not offered a contract by the Quakers. Aug 26th. Leeds 4-0 C Palace. Att : 10,765. Lucas, Richardson, Michallik, White, (Bradley Johnson 74), Delph, Douglas, Kilkenny, Hughes, Becchio (Showunmi 58), Beckford (Howson 79). Subs - Martin, Marques, Snodgrass and Robinson. Okay it's only Aug 24th. Players reaction to Leeds performance v Yeovil Town. United winger Andy Robinson said: "Hunty swore blind that he didn't touch the man and that (Warne) went over far too easily. "The referee was too quick to jump on the decision, like he was all game. "We felt we were heading for a win but decisions change games. It cost us two points."It's a League One game and I think we got a League One standard of refereeing in my opinion." United's slender lead had been provided by a goal from Luciano Becchio inside 30 seconds of Saturday's game – his first goal for the club on his full league debut – and McAllister's defence had been largely untroubled until Whitestone's intervention. Full-back Alan Sheehan said: "I didn't really see what went on with the penalty but I thought the referee was embarrassing. "I'm not going to mind my words because he was absolutely awful. I felt we were strolling in the first half and I'm really disappointed to be leaving Yeovil with a draw. "When the decisions were going against us in the second half it was difficult to keep your head, and he didn't give us anything." Sheehan, who suffered mild concussion during the game at Huish Park and is a doubt for tomorrow's Carling Cup second-round tie against Crystal Palace, said: "What the manager looked for after Oldham was a reaction, and he had it in the first half. But things didn't go right in the second half. "Everyone can use the referee as an excuse but we've got to be better as well. We should be capable of getting a couple of goals at any ground in this league. "There's a good mood among the players because deep down we know we can be the best team in this league but I'm disappointed to have four points after three games." McAllister spared Whitestone from severe criticism after the final whistle and he reflected a mood of under-achievement in his dressing room. The United boss said: "We didn't play well, I've got to underline that, but although Yeovil were causing us problems, we were coping pretty well. "There are more positives to take (than the Oldham game) but we set our standards high and we wanted to come to Yeovil and control things better. In order to do that, we've got to pass the ball better."We were denied space but that's going to happen in this league. We've got to improve." Becchio's goal came as a consolation for McAllister, who found the net with 25 seconds on the clock. "I thought Luciano worked hard," McAllister said. "He showed what he's capable of with that goal, but we're still looking for more." Aug 23rd. Yeovil Town 1-1 Leeds United. Leeds: Ankergren, Richardson, Huntington, Marques, Sheehan, Snodgrass (Douglas 74), Howson (Delph 86), Prutton, Robinson (Showunmi 73), Beckford, Becchio. Substitutes: Lucas, Telfer. Since that exhilarating 5-2 Aug 20th. A strong Leeds United reserve side lost a 3-2 thriller at home to Huddersfield Town in the reserve league. Becchio scored his first for Leeds, all be it from the spot and Bradley Johnson netted the other. Leeds also fielded Jon Douglas, Telfer, Hughes, Michalik, and Kilkenny. That's seven of the first team squad who figure prominently this season. Aug 20th. No go for Dougie and is it that a mistake ? Leeds United have ruled out a fresh bid for Crystal Palace veteran Dougie Freedman – despite the striker admitting he would be willing to answer a call from Elland Road. United chairman Ken Bates brought a halt to talk of Freedman returning to Leeds for a second time by insisting the club no longer had any intentions of luring the 34-year-old away from London on a permanent basis. Freedman has been linked with a transfer to Elland Road throughout the summer having finished last season on loan with Leeds, but the striker has had no contact with United since the League One play-off final and Bates' comments appear to spell the end of Gary McAllister's interest. Bates said: "Dougie did a good job for us last season, there is no doubt about that. "But he's 34, is an east London boy, he's got four kids, is happily married and he's obviously not going to move his family up here for what would be only a one or two-year contract. It would not be fair to ask him to live in a hotel for 12 months. "We have to look forward not back. Our future is in youth." Aug 19th. Jon Douglas has turned down a three month loan move to Southend. The Clones man doesn't look like featuring in McAllister's plans as perhaps he wants to get some part of his wages offloaded. Will he be moving on before Septrember 1st ? Aug 16th. Leeds 0-2 Oldham Ath. 24,631. Leeds: Ankergren, Richardson, Marques, Huntington, Sheehan, Snodgrass, Howson (Delph 66) , Prutton, Robinson, Beckford, Showunmi (Becchio 66). Subs: Lucas, Douglas, Telfer. United started the same side which Aug 14th. Date with the Palace. Leeds United have been handed a home tie against Crystal Aug 12th. Chester City 2-5 Leeds United. Carling Cup. Ankergren, Richarson, Sheehan, Marques, Huntington, Delph, Howson (Doglas 52), Robsinson (Johnson 52), Snograss, Becchio, Beckford (Shownumi 52). Unused - Lucas, Michalik, Telfer and Elliott. Leeds Aug 9th. Scunthorpe United 1-2 Leeds United. Attendance: 8,315. (2208 Leeds). Leeds United: Ankergren, Richardson, Marques, Huntington, Sheehan, Snodgrass, Howson, Prutton, Robinson (Hughes 90), Showunmi (Becchio 81), Beckford. Subs (not used): Lucas, Telfer, Douglas. Referee: L Probert (Gloucestershire). From Yorkshire Post - Phil
Aug 7thDavid Prutton has signed a contract extension that will take him up to the 2009/10 season and goalkeeper Alan Martin who had a bad time in Dublin we all recall has agreed a three year deal. Aug 7th. Kandol gone in the wind. Millwall were today set to complete the signing of GC's League One Preview Movement in transfer market In: Alan Sheehan (Leicester City, undisclosed Andy Robinson (Swansea City, free) right, Enoch Showunmi (Bristol City, free), Robert Snodgrass (Livingstone, undisclosed), Luciano Becchio (Merida). So here we are on the cusp of a new season. The Millennium loss has been forgotten as we Aug 4th. Douglas expected to leave. Burnley are trying to sign Leeds United midfielder Aug 6th. Millwall are close to signing Kandol on loan for six months according to their official website. Aug 3rd. Cardiff City expect to complete the £300,000 signing of Jay Bothroyd from Wolves tomorrow. Dave Jones has been a long-time admirer of Bothroyd, but it looked as if the 26-year-old striker was on his way to Leeds. However, the Welsh side stepped up their interest following the collapse of proposed talks with FC Dallas striker Kenny Cooper and Bothroyd was in the Ninian Park directors’ box as a guest of Peter Ridsdale at Friday night’s pre-season friendly with Ajax Amsterdam .The former Arsenal trainee – who has also played for Coventry, Perugia (Italy), Charlton and Blackburn in a colourful career – is expected to become a Cardiff player tomorrow if he passes a medical. Personally, we are better off without a player whose goal scoring record is poor and work rate even worse. Aug 2nd. Veteran forward Dougie Freedman is searching for a new club after being told that Aug 2nd. Leeds United 4-1 FC Dender. Att - 7,041. Leeds United: Ankergren, Richardson (Bayly 56), Marques (Michalik 56), Huntington, Sheehan, Snodgrass (Douglas 62), Prutton (Gardner 62), Howson (Sweeney 62), Robinson (Delph 62), Showunmi, Beckford (Parker 65). Subs (not used): Lucas, Martin. This game was live on LUTV with commentary for the first time. Leeds were higly impressive, with Robinson, Howson, Huntington and Delph particularly imresseive. This is how the Yo Aug 1st. Seb Sorsa is on trial with Hamilton Accies, Curtis Weston has gone on a months loan to Gillingham and Bayly may go on loan to Darlingon. July 31st. Leeds United have completed the signing of Argentinian striker Luciano Becchio on a three-year deal. The former Boca Juniors, Barcelona and Real Mallorca player completed a free transfer from Spanish club Merida UD this afternoon after Leeds secured his international clearance. Becchio scored 28 goals in 50 appearance for Merida last season and becomes United's fifth summer signing. Manager Gary McAllister said: “He’s got good instincts and will be dangerous. Along with Jermaine, Enoch Showunmi, Robert Snodgrass and Andy Robinson, we’ve now got five offensive players who will also allow us to make changes in our shape. We'd had reports on Luciano, seend DVDs and had a good look in training. We were very keen to get him and he will be a real threat for us. I've been please of what I have seen of him in games, and although he is lacking in match fitness, he realises that and we still have ten days to go before the season starts. He is working hard." July 29th. July 29th. Darlington 0-0 Leeds United. Just when you thought Leeds had it July 29th. New sponsor. Leading travel firm netflights.com are the new shirt sponsors of L
July 26th at Underhill - Barnet 0-2 Leeds United. Leeds: Ankergren, Richardson (Telfer 56), Marques, Huntington (Michalik 69), Sheehan; Hughes, Delph, Howson, Robinson; Showunmi (Haber 69), Becchio (Gardner 69). Unused Subs: Lucas, Prutton, Douglas, Sweeney, Bayly, Parker, Martin. Referee: Mick Russell Attendance: 2,644.
July 23rd. Shels 1-1 Leeds United July 22nd. One may be in and one definitely out. Leeds United have confirmed the sale of July 20th. Bray Wands 2-3 Leeds United.
July 20th. Leeds United are waiting for Jay Bothroyd to show his hand after agreeing a fee with Wolverhampton Wanderers for the July 17th. Galway United 0-2 Leeds United. 2,749 Ankergren (Martin 74 mins), Richardson (Gardner 74 mins) Telfer (Michalik 74 mins) Huntington, Sheehan 74 mins (Parker 74 mins), Howson (Bayly 62 mins), Hughes (gouglas 62 mins), Johnson (Sweeney 62 mins), Beckford (haber 62 mins), Shownumi, Robinson (Prutton 62 mins), Subs - Marques. A goal either side of half time for Beckford secured a deserved 2-0 win on July 11th. York City 1-1 Leeds United. July 11th. Mac looking to strengthen up front. Leeds United are chasing two more forwards as Gary McAllister bids to bolster his strike force ahead of the new campaign. United also have forwards Jermaine Beckford, Tresor Kandol and Anthony Elding, the subject of a fresh bid from an unnamed club, in their ranks, but McAllister wants two more hotshots to beef up his frontline. Leeds have also been linked with a loan move for former Academy midfielder Danny Rose this week but while that remains a maybe, two more strikers seems a definite."It's an area of the pitch I felt we needed to strengthen and we are still pursuing two others in the forward area," said McAllister. "We're juggling with two or three at the moment. "I'm still looking to add some striking power to the set-up, we've lost Leon Constantine and things might happen with Anthony Elding so we're still looking maybe to bring a couple of forwards in there."I'm quite happy everywhere else, we're well covered throughout most positions, but if anybody becomes available who we feel can make Leeds United better we'll be in the market." McAllister has revealed Leeds are considering accepting a bid from an unnamed club for Elding, former club Crewe having previously led the interest. Another attack-minded player, Sebastien Carole, is back from a trial spell at Le Havre and the Leeds boss feels a permanent move there is something the Frenchman should consider. The intension to sign two more forwards will worry Whites fans into thinking star man Beckford is leaving but McAllister is adamant his best players are going nowhere. "It's been made pretty clear from the chairman, if I don't want a player to leave, he's not leaving," said McAllister. July 9th. Leeds have released information on their three new strips July 8th 2008. Signing number three arrives.Gary McAllister has brought in his third summer signing at Leeds United – long-term target striker Enoch Showunmi. Nigerian international Showunmi declined a move to Leeds in January, opting instead to fight for his place at Championship play-off finalists Bristol City. Show July 7th. Kewell releases statement. Australian international Harry Kewell has been forced July 5th. Kewell and Constantine, what's the difference ? You know football truly is a unique game. It brings out the best and worst in people. Leo Constantine enjoyed a torrid time with Leeds United. Like a number of that squad last season July 2nd. If you fancy a flutter on United to win League One, they are best prices at 100/30 with Celtic Bookmakers. Bar One go 3/1 and so do Boyles. Personally, I think this is super value. Leicester are second favourites at 11/2 with surprisingly MK Dons well priced to do a double promotion. July 2nd. The Leeds v Shelbourne match at Tolka Park has been put back 24 hours and will now be a Wednesday night match at 7:45 on July 23rd. Northampton Town have won the race to sign striker Leon Constantine on a free transfer from Leeds. The 30-year-old returned to Leeds towards the end of last season after a loan spell at Oldham but has now been deemed surplus to requirements. "He's got a physical presence and a proven scoring record at this level," said Cobblers boss Stuart Gray. "There were a lot of clubs in for him but I've got a good relationship with his agent and we've done a deal." Leeds United's out-of-favour midfielder Seb Carole has landed a trial at French Second Division champions Le Havre. Carole joined Leeds from Brighton in 2006 but has failed to hold down a regular place in the side, making 17 league starts last season. The 25-year-old started his career in France and has had spells with Monaco and Chateauroux. July 1st. Leeds United have signed former loan ace Alan Sheehan from League One rivals Leicester City on a three-year-deal. The 21-year-old Irishman was out of contract at the June 27th. Dougie Freedman would consider a permanent
June 24th. 2008. Leeds United have invited Liverpool starlets Krisztia June 17th to June 23rd. Whilst Leeds United continue to have their kick off times amended as fast as Mawhinney added on points to our deficit last season, four of United's first five away games have been moved away from the normal Saturday 3PM slot. Yeovil now becomes a 1Pm kick off, to join Huddersfield Town at 12 Noon, Carlisle United at 12:15 and Scunthorpe United at 12 Noon. Meanwhile, Neil Kilkenny may miss the start of the season as he is likely to be called up for Australia's Olympic squad. One piece of good news surrounds Jonny Howson signing a new deal that will keep him at Leeds until at least 2011. Mon June 16th. The fixtures for League One season 2008/09 are out. Leeds start off away to Scunthorpe United on August 9th. Key games to look out for are the first home match of the season vs Oldham on August 16th plus St Stephens day at home to Leicester and Easter Monday away to Leicester City. We finish at home to Friday 13th.Leeds United have confirmed they will hold a meeting on Tuesday 17 June to discuss the club's transfer targets. Manager Gary McAllister, chairman Ken Bates and technical director Gwyn Williams are all expected to attend. McAllister took over at Leeds after January's transfer deadline and is understood to be keen to finally bring in his own players. Leeds have already been linked in the media with strikers Dougie Freedman, Andy Cole, Derek Riordan, David Healy and Kevin Phillips. Leeds have been drawn to play Chester City away at the Deva Stadium in the first round of the 2008/09 Carling Cup. The sides met at Elland Road in the Carling Cup first round the season before last, Eirik Bakke's first goal for two and a half years proving enough to take Leeds through. June 12th. Rumours abound that Leeds are looking to resign David Healy who June 8th 2008. In the last few days we’ve been linked with Barry Nicholson and Gary Teale, but we now look unlikely to sign either player. June Whilst, Derek Riordan of Celtic remains Gary McAllist For Archived Files for December 07 click here For Archived Files from October to November 07 click here For Archived Files from August to September 07 click here For previous news stories, please click here. For what you think of Leeds, click here to send in your rants and I'll include them in the "Rants" page. |
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United went one down after just six minutes when Villa scored for the Rams. Ellington the ex Wigan player made it two. Leeds started to dominate possession and Derby moved to a 4-51. Robinson and Becchio both went close. United got their just desserts with another super cross from Richardson converted by Becchio. How many times have those two combined this season ? Snodgrass and Richardson were causing Derby all manner of problems down the right side in the first half, but it finished 2-1 at half time.The second half commenced with Leeds asserting themselves, and Snodgrass hit the post with a super free kick on the D. A few minutes later Robsonson missed a sitter after Carroll saved from six yards. McAllister saw enough and displaced the Scouser with Beckford. Delph placed a super sixty yard on to Beckford who finished into the side netting. All Leeds. Fabian Delph was turning on his box of tricks as the League One side continued to outplay their Championship counter parts.Leeds ex hero, Hulse put a header against the bar and Leeds had a few half chances but the match fizzled out to a 2-1 win for Derby. It was a much better performance by Leeds but they don't make the last eight this time out. 
far less affection for his club. Gary McAllister's outstanding memory is that of winning the trophy with Liverpool seven years ago, but Leeds United have come to view the FA Cup as a difficult competition to crack. Their present boss was a professional player contracted to Coventry City on the day of United's last FA Cup victory, and that fact alone says all there is to say about Leeds' relationship with England's stellar tournament. Winners in 1972 but without a win for five seasons, Leeds and the FA Cup do not entirely see eye-to-eye. February 16, 2003 is the date of United's last victory at any stage of the competition and they hold the unflattering distinction of having failed to clear the first hurdle at any point since then. That piece of history was almost amended at Elland Road last night before a 1-1 draw with Northampton Town kept the issue 
burning. McAllister will rue the failure of his players to dispatch a team who competed with 10 players for more than an hour, just as he must rue the strokes of poor luck which have forced Leeds to prepare for a first-round replay later this month. The sole consolation for McAllister, beyond an acceptably lively display, is the presence of Leeds in the draw for the second round, but last night's result came with its drawbacks. United will contest a replay at 
Sixfields during the week beginning November 17, no fewer than seven days before the club make a midweek visit to the same stadium for a league fixture. McAllister's mood was unmistakably upbeat after full-time, in spite of his admission that Leeds had missed a clear opportunity to settle the tie inside 90 minutes, but a second tussle with Northampton is a hindrance he would rather have done without. Already this season, Leeds have contested 21 competitive matches and have another five scheduled before the end of this month. Blessed though he is by an unusually big squad, McAllister is also in need of it, and a long journey to Sixfields between home matches against Huddersfield Town and 
Hartlepool United was more of a punishment than a reward for the effort committed to yesterday's game. United's manager made use of his spare players by naming Robert Snodgrass and Andy Robinson in his line-up, resting Neil Kilkenny and withdrawing Jermaine Beckford whose hip injury made his anticipated omission easier to explain. Snodgrass and Robinson made what they could of their inclusion – the former was named man-of-the-match after the final whistle – but both players were denied by the frame of Northampton's goal with the score at 1-1, and those moments were the critical breaks needed by the visitors to force a draw.Robinson's unfortunate strike came three minutes before half-time and six after his penalty levelled a ninth-minute goal from Northampton forward Scott McGleish, and a shot from Snodgrass in the 51st minute caught the inside of a post, bounced through the six-yard box and found a member of Stuart Gray's defence waiting to hack the ball clear. Either effort would have put the tie beyond a Northampton team who lost Giles Coke to a red card in the first half and were capable of nothing more than token attacks without him, and the frustration for McAllister was mixed with injustice. On the one hand, his players deserved a victory; on the other, there was no kind way of explaining how a tally of 30 shots at eccentric goalkeeper Frank Fielding produced only one goal. The plot for McAllister was somewhat familiar – a brief defensive lapse presenting Northampton with the opening goal, and a lack of precision with Fielding in their sights preventing his strikers from putting their opponents to the sword. Northampton established their authority by breaking the deadlock at Elland Road, but they lost Coke to a red card and conceded Robinson's penalty before the interval, two match-altering developments which meant a draw became the natural limit of their ambition. Coke's dismissal in the 27th minute smacked of stupidity, brought on by an awful challenge on Ben Parker and a mindless foul on Fabian Delph. Parker was flattened with such force in the second minute that Coke might have walked for that offence, but the benefit of the doubt given to him by Michael Oliver was long gone when the Football League's youngest referee pulled the midfielder up for a tackle that ended a surging run from Delph inside the centre circle. With a yellow card hanging over him, it was not a challenge that Coke was justified in trying to make. Oliver issued him with a second caution and a red card and left Northampton to defend the goal claimed by McGleish's instinctive finish. Ryan Gilligan sliced United's defence open with a direct run down the left wing, and his cross was touched towards goal by former Leeds 
striker Leon Constantine and clipped over the line by McGleish before Casper Ankergren could claim the loose ball. Northampton seemed content with a one-goal lead and maintained their organisation until Coke's dismissal left them short of numbers. Within nine minutes, disruption caused by Luciano Becchio forced Mark Hughes to stick out a leg and trip Jonathan Howson as the midfielder manipulated the ball inside the box. Robinson's conversion from the penalty spot was clinical and stylish, rising into the roof of Fielding's net, and the keeper was beaten when Robinson drove a low shot from outside the box against his right-hand post. Snodgrass' attempt early in the second half struck the same barrier at the other end of the pitch, and Fielding was in the eye of the storm for the whole of the second half. Only once did Northampton threaten to score on the counter attack, forcing Ankergren to run from his box and deal swiftly with the threat. Robinson swept an effort a couple of inches over the crossbar and a deflected shot from Jonathan Douglas found its way kindly into Fielding's hands, but the resistance from Northampton remained until full-time arrived. The sound of Oliver's whistle brought an end to the first skirmish between two clubs who will have clashed three times and grown sick of the sight of each other by the time November is out. With his eyes on the third round and with a league match to win, McAllister can only hope that the trilogy is more tiresome for Gray than it is for him.
Showunmi, Referee: F Graham (Essex)Att: 5726 (1817 Leeds).
d narrowly wide. United were dominant but couldn't get that second goal. Near half time Scott Murray nearly equalised when he capitalised on a defensive error in the Leeds defence. Robinson came on for Howson 10 minutes into the second half and came within a whisker of scoring when he nearly snatched onto a mistake by the keeper from a Becchio strike. The home side had their chances but Leeds always looked dangerous on the break. McAllister will be happy with the clean sheet. He will also be happy when he learns that only Leicester from the top four won, as Scunthorpe were held at home to Swindon Town, Oldham lost 0-2 at home to Yeovil and Millwall were hammered 4-1 at Brighton with another contributory goal from Bradley Johnson. It was a good day for the Foxes as Mattie Fryatt scored twice in the last four minutes to earn Leicester a 2-1 win over in form Bristol Rovers. It may surprise one or two that Leeds have the best defensive record of the top three as they nudge into second place, one point behind their Yorkshire neighbours, Scunthorpe. The Louth branch will be heavily in attendance the next time they have League One business on offer and hopefully we will see them go top, even if only for a few hours. 
Leeds started the second half the stronger. Kilkenny had a volley from 10 yards brilliantly saved by Federici. At the other end Ankergren saved from Harding. Robinson and Snodgrass came on for Kilkenny and Delph respectively after 66 minutes as Leeds pushed hard for the equaliser. Robinson had a chance a few minutes later but only hit the side netting when he should have done better. Leeds never really created any clear cut chances in the second although they had the lion's share of possession. Beckford was very disappointing up front and McAllister will worry about his keeper who dropped four crosses again tonight. But he will be more concerned as Leeds away day blues continued. Only Millwall in the top four won, with a later winner v Hereford. Scunthorpe were thumped 3-0 at Oldham and Bradley Johnson scored two on his debut for Brighton as they came from behind to win 3-2. There is very little between the sides at this level but United have to start getting their act together on the road. Some people will argue that Andy Robsinon should be starting matches. Others, after tonight will wonder why Bradley Johnson hasn't even received a cameo role to date and he turns in a storming performance at the Withdean. What has happened to David Prutton who is always a big player for us away from home ? Have we a good enough keeper at this level and have we a back four that can handle a big man ? There appears to be cracks in the defence and big gangly centre forwards like Laurent tonight and similarily against Peterboro and Oldham cause us problems. Nothing short of three points against Cheltenham will suffice, and yet we are just three points off the top. Lots of talking points, lots of opinion and lots of football, to be played. One last opinion from Eddie Gray : "Despite what people think we are no better than any of the sides at the top of this league". Personally, I would like to see a Dougie Freedman ala Robbie Blake type player behind the front two. Will Leeds go for Dean Windass ? 
squad." Dean Windass would consider a move to Leeds United if he can't fight his way into the Hull City team. The 39-year-old striker, who was last week the subject of an enquiry from Bradford City, spoke to United manager Gary McAllister after yesterday's behind-closed-doors friendly at Thorp Arch. It is unclear what was discussed by the pair but Windass has revealed he would consider joining Leeds if unable to improve on his one substitute appearance in Tigers colours this season. He said: "I am still desperate to play and I turned out in a friendly on Monday and scored a goal. One of those watching was Leeds manager Gary McAllister who I spoke to both before and after the game. "I want to make it clear that my priority is still to get back in the Hull team, but if Phil Brown tells me I can go, Leeds would definitely be a club I'd consider joining. "I've known Gary for a long time and respect him both as a footballer and for the job he's doing at Elland Road. "Bradford also made an enquiry about me last week, but I think they couldn't afford to pay Hull's wages."
who won the toss would be attacking the Kop end in the first half. Walsall came to frustrate and Ricketts played as an extra midfielder to stop Leeds feeding Becchio and Beckford. Kilkenny went closes for Leeds but Delph, Howson, Beckford and Becchio all had half chances as the Saddlers defended well in the first half. Leeds only had to wait one minute in the second half as Becchio took advantage of a mistake in the Saddlers defence to make it 1-0. Walsall had no plan "B" and United took control. Walsall tried to come forward and Leeds started to expose them. Fabian Delph scored a thunder buster on 67 minutes with his left foot. Robinson had come on for Kilkenny and started to express himself and Howson and Douglas were impressive in midfield. Don't doubt McAllister's Leeds. They were patient today and got their just desserts and Delph scored another cracker on 87 minutes. We are Leeds and we are up to second as Millwall lost 2-3 at Scunthorpe and Leicester could only draw 0-0 at home to N'hampton. One last point. Isn't it great to a see a Leeds side that contains four excellent players who came the whole way through our youth system : Delph, Hoswon, Parker and Richardson. 
against Leeds United this afternoon. The one-time England marksman had a brief and unhappy spell at Elland Road before joining Walsall. Ricketts now wants to put the record straight and said: “It’ll be nice to go there and take the sting out of it for the rest of the lads, because there’ll be 25,000 people out there baying for my blood. “It would be nice to go out there and get a goal.“I never got on with certain people at the club – although most of them are at Sheffield United now.“My stay at Leeds was shortlived and I wasn’t very happy – but there’s still some great people there.“It’s a big club with good players, but I’m not playing for them any more and I’ve no allegiance to them. “If we go there and do what we’re supposed to do, then there’s no reason why we can’t get a positive result.’’
League One matches on the trot as Leyton Orient visited Elland Road. McAllister made three changes, some enforced with Howson coming in for Hughes, Parker coming in for White and Telfer replacing Rui Marques (who didn't even make the sixteen). Leeds gained a soft penalty on eight minutes, but the normally prolific Beckford slipped and balooned his shot over. Orient didn't come for the day out and the decent Adam Boyd and tricky Dean Morgan (on loan from Luton) continued to cause Leeds problems as the game became nip and tuck. On 26 minutes Morgan scored with a low drive and Leeds couldn't have had too many complaints. Moments later Richardson made an important block to deny Paul Terry. Leeds broke forward with Beckford delivering a dangerous cross and Purchess scored an OG after pressure from Becchio. On 45 minutes the super South American planted a beautiful header past Morris to make it 2-1 to the Whites. Leeds started the second half much brighter with a higher tempo of football that befits the side they can be. Early in the second half a super break by Leeds saw Beckford rattle the crossbar after good work from Howson. Beckford went close again moments later as Leeds started to dominate possession. Beckford continued to go close as that elusive goal kept passing him by. He even hit the post in the last minute. Orient had a couple of chances on the break but 
Leeds should have scored a half dozen in the second half. We still haven't solved our defensive frailties on tonights display but looked terrific going forward. Elsewhere Scunthorpe dropped two points against tricky Southend, Leicester drew 2-2 at home to Walsall in the Midlands derby. Oldham lost 2-0 at Bristol Rvs. Millwall go joint top with Scunthorpe on 26 points after winning at Colchester. Leeds climb one place to fourth and are just three points off the top spot. Best for Leeds tonight were Parker (especially going forward) Delph and another super display from Becchio. 
re not good when the Louth Branch learned that Ray McCloskey was in the New Den. His last time out saw United lose 0-2 at home to Oldham Athletic. This time around Leeds can have no complaints. Leeds never got out of the blocks. Becchio, the player some of us liked in Dublin scored with a super 25 yard strike on 30 minutes to put Leeds undeservedly ahead. Millwall who had two quick wingers that Leeds struggled to get hold of all day equalised on 39 minutes through Harris. In defence Leeds struggled all afternoon, but in midfield and in attack the Whites created next to nothing. Millwall went ahead on 59 minutes when Harris scored his second and a defensive lapse involving White and Rui Marques lead to a 3-1 win for Millwall on 88 minutes. Three one was the least the Lions deserved and they leap frog Leeds into third position. 
going to try and kid anyone on. They deserved their win and we go back up the road with nothing. "I'm concerned that we've lost three goals and with the manner in which we lost them. There are no excuses and there's a lot of hard work to be done, especially when we don't have the ball. Millwall were fierce, their closing down was fantastic and in the end they're worthy winners." Elsehwere Oldham drew 1-1 at home to Leicester and Scunthorpe had a 90th minute winner at Cheltenham. Scunthorpe are five points clear of fifth placed Leeds in a tight enough bunch at the top. Next up is Leyton Orient on Tuesday night when nothing less than three points will do. 
Dalymount Park in Kevin Hunt's deserved testimonial, were three former players with huge links to Leeds United, Gary McAllister, Stephen Staunton and Gary Kelly. At times all three displayed ability defying their years and current manager Macca, who slipped over the ball once, and known for his deft touch with a football was overjoyed to score with a downward header on the stroke of half time. Staunton was the pick of the three with an immaculate range of left foot long range passing. Some of the Bohs fans defied logic by constantly booing him. More's the pity on these bufoons. All three played for approximately 75 to 80 minutes and fair play to all three for giving up their time for an English player who has spent 11 years at a LOI club. All in all an enjoyable occasion.
Jermaine Beckford is joint top scorer with Lambert of Bristol Rovers on nine goals. Our main rivals currently, Leicester who will go top if they draw their game in hand have played only one side so far in the top four, and they lost that fixture at home. Leicester are one of the few clubs that voted with us against the fifteen points deduction last season. Leicester City have won six matches against sides in the bottom half of the table, and played just three matches against sides in the top half, winning one, drawing one and losing one. Only two sides have conceded less goals than Leeds, but to date three sides have scored more goals than Leeds.
yards all went close. Leeds took the deserved lead on 44 minutes when a Hughes's cross which was flicked on by Beckford and finished beautifully by Becchio with a left footed half volley. The second came a minute later when White and Delph combined before Beckford buried a downward header bouncing to the top corner. The second half commenced with Beckford taking on the entire Brighton rear guard from the kick off and rattling a twenty yarder into the side netting. There was no way back for Brighton and the crowd took delight in abusing the beloved Robbie Savage on loan from Derby. Leeds went close several times in the second had through Beckford, Marques, Delph and Becchio, but that man Beckford added the icing to the cake on 90 minutes when he raced past the keeper to slot home. Moments later, Glen Murray pulled an undeserved consolation goal back for Brighton following a Rui Marques error (not for the first time this season). We're up to third, two points behind Scunthorpe and Leicester (who have a game in hand). We have averaged two points per game from the first ten played, and if we keep that up over the next 36 matches we will be planning our Summer for the Championship. 
nowhere near Fenton on 53 minutes when he easily out jumped the Angolan to make it 4-1. Leeds brought on Sheehan on 57 minutes and threw the kitchen sink at the Millers. Showunmi who made a habit all night of getting caught needlessly offside scored a good goal on 56 minutes and it was game on. Sheehan's excellent freekick went narrowly wide. Becchio and Beckford came on with 20 minutes to go. Howson and Kilkenny had super strikes saved by the in form Warrington. Snoddgrass had a brilliant header saved and Becchio hit the crossbar with a header. Lady luck again went against Leeds as Sheehan who was beginning to make a difference with his running left the park with a hamstring injury. This was the wind taken from Leeds' sails when even with 15 minutes to go and 11 full men on the park 4-4 didn't look off the cards. The match fizzled out after this. Some Leeds players perhaps pencilled into McAllister's second 11 failed to take their chances. Kilkenny was below average and Marques and Michallik as central defenders have less to offer against Telfer and Huntington. Lucas will be disappointed with his night and Robinsson could have done more. Snodgrass looks a decent player and Howson in glimpses showed some of last years form although by 
his standards needs to improve much more. The doubters will point to two defeats in a row, and the real black cats will point to two defeats in a row against ex Man United players now managers. That is being harsh. There is no doubt that with Delph, Telfer, Douglas, Richardson Becchio and Beckford starting, Leeds would have made mincemeat out of Rotherham who for all their goals really had four or five efforts on goal and scorted from nearly them all. That reflects more the mistakes Leeds made than the performance the home side put in. This is opposed to double figures of attempts on target from Leeds. McAllister will rightly worry about Summer League defending from players who really should know better. If anything happens to Becchio or Beckford, Showunmi isn't the answer, although Snodgrass can certainly play through the middle. Freedman is still one who got away for me. All in all I would have been more disappointed had we lost three points tonight, but we must get back on the saddle for Saturday. Also good luck to Rotherham for the rest of the season, a fellow Yorkshire side that have overcome their own 17 point handicap to put the smiles back on their South Yorkshire following. 
once said : "Football's a funny ol' game". In many people's hot pot this weekend, Arsenal, QPR, Bayern Munich and Leeds United would have taken pride of place. Hull City won at 10/1 against the Gunners despite dominating for most of the match. 3/1 Derby County defeated the richest side (and the one with the best home record) QPR 2-0 at Loftus Road and the unfancied Hannover 96 at 4/1 humbled the mighty Bavarians. Leeds at 4/11 had to wait until the 72nd minute to score the only goal of the match against 13/2 Hereford United. The difference was that they refused to give up their passing game and eventually were rewarded for thoroughly dominating the match. Beckford might have had three, Douglas went close, Becchio went close and Robinson went close. The Bulls with former Champions League winner, Bruno N'gotty marshalling their defence on his debut were valiant right up until the end. United's performance was persistent and, throughout the second half, extremely enterprising, but asked to take the strain in a ridiculously one-sided match, Hereford did so with unexpected assurance for a team so far down their division. Their manager, Graham Turner, would no doubt define the scares they survived as the luck they deserved, right up to the moment when Robinson smashed a hole in their defence.McAllister similarly could not take issue with the attitude of his players and he was relieved to have no complaints with the result either. After five straight wins in three different competitions – three coming in the league – a game against Hereford offered the same potential and his selection policy yesterday was as positive as it could have been. His decisions paid off, if somewhat belatedly.In a minor break from tradition, McAllister picked apart a winning team, dropping two of the players responsible for last weekend's victory at Carlisle United – Andrew Hughes and Neil Kilkenny – and called instead upon two others whose form had come under scrutiny earlier in the season. Robinson and Jonathan Howson were first-choice individuals last month but surrendered their starting places after an uninspired 1-1 draw at Yeovil Town, and McAllister seemed to view the arrival of Hereford as a suitable opportunity to reintroduce them. The former justified his start, and came off to wartm applause. Leeds will be pleased that Oldham slipped up to in form Huddersfield. Elsewhere, Leicester, Millwall and Scunthorpe all won. Leeds are a point off top, and sitting nicely having already played four teams out of the top seven. The manager and captain had the following to say. Captain, Frazer Richardson had this to say about the current set up : "I think the dressing room's as positive as I've known it. The lads are bonding and getting on well, and the gaffer always tries to encourage that. It keeps us all together. The team's playing with loads of confidence at the moment, and football's like any sport – when you play with confidence you play well, and when you play well the results tend to come consistently. We've had some very difficult seasons but hopefully, this is the turning now. I hope we'll go forward positively. If we can maintain our confidence then that will help take us to where we need to be at the end of the season. We're looking sharp up front and good in the final third, and as long as we keep it tight at the back then I'm sure we'll go onwards and upwards from here." McAllister said: "We had over 60% of the possession and 31 attempts at goal to Hereford's four. We could have been punished at the end from a couple of sloppy mistakes that could have affected the outcome, but overall we deserved to win. I thought their keeper would have an inspired game because my assistant manager Steve Staunton took him for the Republic of Ireland's Under-21s. Before the game Steve told me to keep an eye on him and he didn't disappoint."
(Beckford 36), Prutton (Delph 84), Howson, Kilkenny, Robinson, Showunmi (Becchio 70). Lucas, White, Webb, and Elliott.
Branch) wanted three league wins in a row. He got it. Our chairman wanted a clean sheet. He got it. Once again, Telfer marshalled the back four superbly and if there is a better front two in this division than Becchio and Beckford, I haven't heard of them. Becchio impressed me in Dublin. Others were impressed with the Canadian, but the South American was in a different class with his movement. The Leeds staff kept Becchio and have been proved correct. He has impressed many in Leeds, but not just with his goalscoring. He is impressive in the air and works unselfishly for the team. Luciano Becchio and Jermaine Beckford fired the goals as Leeds United enjoyed a successful return to brunton Park against Carlisle United. It was their first visit to the ground since last season's memorable play-off semi-final success. Becchio was on hand to rifle home a Paul Telfer cross in the 32nd minute. Marc Bridge-Wilkinson almost equalised for the home side before Jermaine Beckford and Rui Marques both went close to increasing United's lead before half-
time arrived. Chances came and went at either end after the break, including Richardson hitting the cross bar but it wasn't until the 86th minute when Beckford fired from close range that the points were made safe by Gary McAllister's side. Elsewhere, Oldhan threw away a two goal lead to draw 3-3 with Hartlepool, but Scunthorpe and Leicester City keep winning. If we continue to play like this, we will move beyond third to the summit very soon.....and we will stay there. John Ward won a lot of friends in Leeds last season with his generous comments after the Play-Offs. The man still has his values : " I think that the better side won and I 
think that we were that little bit behind in passing and keeping the ball. Then the final part of the game, the clinical stuff, they have put two goals in the back of our net and we haven't. The early clinical play from ourselves in the first five or six games has deserted us a wee bit in the last two games. So I have got no real grumbles about the result, I think that the better team has won the game today. The game was relatively tight and close but we are pushing on obviously at the end when the second one has come, but it is a real quality break and goal for them. You have got to put your hands up sometimes and say that but overall I think that in the game they kept the ball that little bit better than us. We crowded around it and we shaped ourselves up, but when we did get forward a couple of our corners and free-kicks weren't quite as good as we wanted. When we did get them right we weren't attacking the ball well enough. So we don't really deserve 2-0 I think but I have got to take that because that is what happened, but they were slightly better than us and we have got to take it. I can't go in that dressing-room and have a shout at anybody or anything. Everybody has tried very, very hard, we want to be a bit better of course we do in terms of the quality that we have got. I think that a good number of guys in the Paddock stayed behind to applaud the team off at the end even in defeat. It shows that they are backing this team and the team are backing them, but we have not been up to Leeds United's standards today. We have got to say that and accept it and work hard to be a bit better. These are future champions aren't they, everyone is looking at that, and I think that they are a better team than they were last year. With people like (Fabian) Delph and (Luciano) Becchio that give them extra invention I think and composure with the 
ball. So they have got a real good crop coming through, we have had a good bench today but when you look at their bench as well they are good players. I think that there have been two good teams here and they are absolutely delighted to get the win because they know that it has been a tough fixture. We are a wee bit behind them though and we have got to keep working hard to try to achieve that level if you like at our league. We have said before that the four games last year had a lot on them, of course they did, but I think that the football was absorbing enough to keep any other thoughts of mischief out of the way. I think that has happened today, both sets of supporters have gone home thinking that they are not bad, but we know, our lot, that we have got to be a bit better. They know that they have got a good team, that is it, we have got to work hard but Carlisle United will do that, they will stick together and we will try very hard at Walsall next week. Hopefully the people that follow us there will appreciate that too. I think that we have tried though with the three substitutes and the team have tried very hard, but we have just not been up to Leeds United today. It was a good game, I am disappointed for my team because they want to be better and they want to work hard. They have done that today and we are just that little bit short of getting up to this level. There are always things to strive for though, I have got a good team and a good group of people that are working hard to try to do that. You are just disappointed that we haven't done a wee bit better against a very strong team, but that's us, we will stick at it and work hard again next week for everybody. "
McAllister decsribed it as "the best result by far" since he became manager. Praise indeed. Leeds made one enforced change from last week after Michallik's suspension. Rui Marques linked up with Paul Telfer in the centre of defence for the first time, creating a partnership with a combined age of 67. It was always going to be a tricky affair going to Wiltshire, but United made it hard for themselves when Sheehan's two footed tackle ("deservedly" in the words of the manager) saw red after just nine minutes. Sheehan let his side down last season at Yeovil and eventually, some may add contributed to our defeat against Doncaster when Macca wrongly replaced him at Wembley with Bradley Johnson. This time around Leeds have White or Parker with the 16 year old already anointed for the 
Cumbrian fixture against Carlisle United next week. Leeds didn't bring off a forward. Instead Beckford moved out to the left and Becchio ran his legs off. Lucas made a couple of decent saves. Leeds got their rewards after 23 minutes when Beckford finshed well following a defensive mistake by Swindon. Leeds were playing well despite the one man disadvantage. Swindon got a huge boost on 45 minutes when a defensive mistake let in their top scorer Cox to score. Lesser teams would have folded, but Leeds are made of sterner stuff these days. McAllister likes the side that defeated C Palace 4-0 in the CC and it's probably that very same side that will start 
at Carlisle United. Howson, Showunmi, Robinson, Prutton, Huntington and Snodgrass are all quality but it is hard to get into the 16 man panel these days. The second half commenced and Leeds continued to pass around 11 men Swindon. Our break came when their keeper fumbled Kilkenny's 40 yard free kick into the net on five minutes after the interval. Prutton and Howson came on for Becchio and KIlkenny and Beckford missed a good chance. He made amends with five minutes to go when he scored his tenth of the season and wrapped up the three points for United. We are up to fourth place now as Oldham continue to set the pace. Here's what the managers had to say : Gary McAllister speaki
ng to Thom Kirwin claimed : "That's the best performance I have had since I came here. Unfortunately people from Swindon didn't see the side we are because of the sending off. I've seen the red card and it is a red card. Both feet off the ball and he's left the ground with both feet. We deserved the victory. We were organised and they couldn't break us down. We got lucky with their mistake but over 90 minutes we created the most chances. Especially the warm conditions, to play with ten men for 81 minutes on a sticky pitch I have to give them all the credit. Rui improved as the game went on and in the end him and Paul Telfer were very comfortable. Beckford's performance for the team was outstanding". When questioned who would come in for Sheehan, he added " I have a decent wee left back (meaning White) who can come in for Carlisle". Swindon Town manager, Maurice Malpas : "I'm lost for words 
after that, to say it was pathetic defending from us would be kind. One or two defensive mistakes would have been bad but three beggars belief. It's happening every week now. There will be one or two heads that will have to roll for that. Apart from our goal and one other situation when Coxy had a header saved, Leeds just passed it about and were in charge. I said at half-time we've got to move the ball quicker but we sat back with four defenders marking one striker. There was not enough urgency - the players just se
emed to accept that someone has made a mistake, but we need to respond better.The buck stops with me, I pick the team, but I can assure you that team won't play next week. Malpas felt the defeat was an opportunity lost after 13,001 fans turned up to watch Town lose. e said: "The fans who don't normally come will think 'why do they get paid that kind of money to play like that?' and they won't come back. The players were bright in training going into the game but the lights went out at times.We will train hard this week and we've got to try and solve it."
Middlesbrough striker under Dennis Wise, but opted against offering him a contract after he suffered a back injury. McAllister feels that after Christie missed out on a deal last time around it is only fair the club play their part in helping him regain match fitness so that he can resume his career. However, Leeds could well decide to sign the striker on non-contract terms should the former Derby and Boro marksman impress McAllister in training. "Malcolm has had a tough time with injuries," stated the Whites boss."I understand he trained with the club when Dennis Wise was here, but subsequently suffered an injury."On that basis, it is courtesy and etiquette that he has been able to use the facilities we have to help himself back to fitness."It is not a second trial as someone has reported."
much need to look for new recruits, although he insists he would always try to bring in a top player if they were available. "After Saturday's performance do I need to be going into the loan market?" said the manager."We will continue to try and bring players into the club who we think will make us better and we are not in the market for quantity now, it's quality we want." Roy Keane would have no qualms about Anthony Stokes joining the Whites. The striker is set for a temporary move away from the Stadium of Light, with a host of Championship clubs linked. Leeds have also been credited with an interest and Keane said: "He's more than good enough to play in the Championship, but if a big club like Leeds in League One came in, then that would be an option." McAllister later confirmed that Leeds will not be pursuing any interest in Stokes, a player who refused the opportuinty to come to Elland Road during the january 08 transfer window.
to replicate the side that hammered Palace 4-0 for the first time with Sheehan replacing White from that fixture. This may not be his best side individually but the manager feels it is his best side on form currently. It's hard to argue against that although the negative ones among us will bemoan another match without a clean sheet. That may be true but it would be an injustice to a Leeds performance that never got near this standard of football under Wise and Poyet. Telfer is his preferred central defender at the back and he marshalled his defence admirably when Crewe rarely got a sniff until they played against ten men. The first goal same from Fabian Delph's superb strike from outside the box on 26 mins. The youngster signed a new four deal with United the day before and his first league goal was unstoppable. 
Alan Sheehan arguably got the pick of the bunch ten minutes later as Leeds went into half time in cruise control, 2-0 to the good. Leeds continued to run the Railwaymen ragged in the second half and Jon Douglas scored a belter from outside the box on 48 minutes. Beckford added a fourth with a neat header on 66 minuted from sub Robinson's cross. Robinson curled one to the right top corner on 81 minutes. Lubo pulled back a Crewe player in the last minute and received a senseless second yellow. From the resulting free kick Calvin Zola who had been marked out of the match all afternoon by the big Slovak scored with an easy header. The match finished on a disappointing note when Bopp's shot took a huge deflection and looped over Lucas in goal. All in all Leeds were very comfortable and will hit some sides this year for more than five in other matches, I assure you. The clean sheet was of less importance than our first home win. Crewe first-team coach Steve Holland admitted he could only admire Leeds' shooting as his side crashed to a 5-2 defeat at Elland Road. "Leeds' first three goals all came from long range, leaving Holland awestruck. "If you set your side up to defend so that your opponents' only threat is coming from outside your box, you're happy," Holland told BBC Radio Stoke. But obviously the quality of the shooting was outstanding. Three of those shots were just unstoppable. We were hopelessly outplayed today, All of their players played better than their respective opponents. They have a good way of playing and they have some good players. They have Douglas who sits in front of the back four and three other midfielders who are all very good on the ball. We tried to cope but to be fair we were second best today. Not every game is going to be like this one which might just be as well". McAllister on Delph said: "He is very pleasing on the eye and a very good 
footballer. We have to add little pieces to his game. We don't have to tell him much about how to control the ball or how to pass it. He has that in abundance. He plays in the area of midfield where I played so it is an area of the pitch I naturally look at a lot. I asked Fabian if he could take another step forward by having a pop at goal. He cracked one in in this game and I was very pleased." “There was pressure before the game,” admitted manager Gary McAllister. “But for 90 minutes we were perfect. What happened after that reminded us that football can kick you in the backside as well.”
for breaching agent payment regulations.The charge relates to the transfer of Anthony Elding from Stockport in January 2008. Elding has since left the club to join Coca-Cola League One rivals Crewe. A statement on the club's official website, www.leedsunited.com, read: "Leeds United can confirm that the club has pleaded guilty to the Football Association charge for using an unlicensed agent in respect of the transfer of Anthony Elding from Stockport County in January 2008. "The club has requested for a personal hearing and no further comment will be made, other than we would like to re-iterate the fact that no payment has been made or is alleged to have been made to the agent involved in respect of the transfer." Whatever the outcome heads should roll at Elland Road for Harvey or Bates if we drop points for this simple but blatant rule breaking.On a happier note (especially as I backed him at 11/1 to top League One) Jermaine Beckford`s been credited with the first goal in the draw with Bristol Rovers at the weekend.The strikers shot took a huge deflection off Rovers defender Steve Elliott before going in. The press association credited the goal to Elliott but after Leeds appealed to the Football League on Monday the goal is to be credited to Beckford and all Football League records will now show this.
Leeds made seven changes from the side that started versus Bristol Rovers as Gary McAllister continued his rotation policy. In came Marques, White, Prutton, Howson, Snodgrass, Showunmi and Robinson. Prutton hit the post after a couple of months. United were in front after seven minutes after McClaren handled a cross and Robinson fought of Showunmi to convert the spot kick. Bradford had a goal disallowed and in a feisty first half gave as good as they got. Robinson hit the cross bar at the end of the first half and Becchio scored from the resulting corner to make it 2-0. Leeds dominated the early stages of the second half when Becchio went close and a Robinson shot was turned over. But all for Leeds domination, City grabbed an equaliser with twenty minutes to go after their first real attack with (almost local) Barry 
Conlon (pic'd left) slotting home. It was an entertaining match with a few bookings including one bad challenge by Daley on Rui Marques. Snodgrass and Bradley Johnson saw yellow for Leeds and Gary McAllister will be happy with a number of Leeds players with Robinson particularly doing well. The following came in the customary post match interview with Eddie Gray. Gary Mac : "We were cruising and we tried to be clever with one sloppy decision and caused our own problems. On possession we dominated from the first minute and created some great chances. Robinson has guile and was terrific. Whyte did very well, but a young boy getting cramp at 16, it never happened to you or me, Eddie.The beauty of this competition is to use our big squad giving the players on the edges a chance instead of a meaningless reserve game with no atmosphere. Bradford kept going and kept going. Becchio showed his strength in the air but we have to get balls into him. The main objective of the deadline was to get players going the other way. We are very hopeful that Paul Telfer and Alan Sheehan will be fit for selection this weekend". David Wetherall : "I enjoyed the close of the game more than the first half. We weren't too disappointed with our boys overall performance. We were disappointed with the penalty and the disallowed goal but in saying that Leeds played some terrific football and are a real quality side". Manager, Steve McCall (talking to Eddie Gray) very magnanimous in defat "From our point of view we were disappointed with the penalty. It was a hand but we thought it was harsh and Leeds had a player on the line for goal and it may not have been an offside. At 2-0 we were worried this could get difficult if they get the next goal. I was here when they passed Palace off the park the other week. We were pleased with our performance. As I say it would have been easy to fold at 2-0 but we stuck together well and did ourselves justice. I know how much it means to the 4,000 Bradford city fans to come to Leeds and I'm glad we didn't let them down. The kid for Leeds at left back what a prospect for Leeds. He is a proper player isn't he, Eddie. I think Leeds will go the whole way if they take it seriously. This is the best game we could have gotten financially. We've earned a few bob also"
Alan Sheehan failed late fitness tests but the wholesale changes made by Gary McAllister for the CC cup tie success over C Palace saw virtually the same side gain a vote of confidence for a replay performance. And after just five minutes the plan was working with Leeds taking the lead through a heavily deflected Beckford effort. Leeds came out all guns firing against a side high in confidence following their six goal maul of Hereford and 1-1 draw at in form Brighton. United continued to have loads of possession but found it hard to break down a resolute Rovers defence. Bristol Rovers turned the game on its head with two goals in five minutes. First Ricky Lambert equalised in the 32nd minute and then just five minutes later Daryl Duffy gave the West Country men a surprise lead over the West Yorkshiremen. Both goals were caused by bad mistakes in the Leeds defence especially Huntington for the second and Leeds were fortunate not to go 
down 3-1 just before half time when Lampert missed a decent chance. Leeds started the second half in a quick tempo as Rovers retreated further and further back. Fabian Delph, impressive again in cameo roles went close with a daisy cutter from just outside the box. Leeds played some superb football bu too often an incorrect pass or super defending saved the day. A double substitution saw Howson and Showunmi enter the fray with Johnson and Hughes withdrawn and Leeds moved to three at the back and a three pronged attack. Howson quickly went close but Beckford levelled deservedly on 77 minutes with super confident finish. Minutes later the effective Kilkenny broke through into the box but his shot went just wide. Leeds went all out for the three points and laid siege to the Pirates goal but although commanding all the pressure no clear cut chances were created and a draw was the result. On the negative side Leeds have taken just one point from six at home as Gary McAllister struggles to find his best side. Some would say that the side is consistently 
inconsistent, but perhaps that is being harsh just six games into the season, three of which United have won and one lost. Many would swop CC success for points on the board but Leeds are just five points off the pace. There is no doubt that Paul Telfer was "a huge loss before kick off" in Gary McAllister's words as United's central defence has been shaky with Huntington and before him, Rui Marques making continual mistakes that have been punished each time. Bradley Johnson would not have started at left full had Sheehan been fit and we saw at Wembley how easily he can be exposed. Last season Swansea had a slow burner before igniting and Leeds may do the same. Personally, I think they will. Beckford has been linked with Charlton. Madness to sell your biggest scoring forward, and in my view common sense would prevail by revisiting the Dougie Freedman option. He has the craft and invention to break sides like Rovers down but a certain Father Christmas has shot down this plan. Also he knows the side and likes the side. I like the idea of dropping players that aren't performing even if they are Howson, Rui Marques occasionally Snodgrass and definitely Robinson. They will all come good as will Leeds. Next up it's Bradford City on Tuesday in the JPT where a crowd of 25,000 is expected. McAllister : "Worst scenario is to lose. We tried to open them up in many ways, go wide, play football down the middle and out wide and then route one but the final ball lacked that wee bit of quality we needed . Barring two little moments where concentration went completely and Fabian will learn from the first one, (where he should put his laces through it) we dominated completely. There was no excuse for the second goal where we were done with a quick free kick which we are trying to do every week. Disappointing, but there are going to be days like this and we have not been beaten. Some of the possession and pass and movement was excellent, but at times we need to inject more pace and a better ball. Going forward we worked and worked. We switched off twice and got punished. The crowd were fantastic and they could see the work rate and the effort and the chances we tried to create. I couldn't fault them".
Aug 28th. Leeds may get a windfall from Newcastle if the proposed move of James Milner to Aston Villa (as expected) goes through before September 1st. He can thank his old foe Gerald Krasner for inserting a sell on clause, something which Ken Bates has neglected to do with the likes of Aaron Lennon and Alan Smith. Milner has already handed in a transfer request and is being represented by the PFA. 
the Carling Cup but what a performance. Palace rested a few players, Leeds changed eight and gave a debut to 16 year old Aiden White, as well as bringing in Douglas, KIlkenny, Telfer, Lucas, Michallik, Delph and Hughes. Strength in depth ! Leeds gave Neil Warnock's C Palace a country lesson at Elland Road with a five star performance form start to finish. United came out of the blocks quicker than a Jamaican sprinter and Douglas deservedly put Leeds ahead on 11 minutes. Douglas added steel, Telfer and Hughes added determinaation and Kilkenny added kraft. I like Becchio who wins more headers than Showunmi. Beckford put us two nil up on 29 mins and Leeds cantered in at half time a brace up when it could have been six. Young White did well on his debut and every Leeds player was comfortable on the ball. Food for thought for McAllister on Saturday as the keeper had hardly to kick a ball out such was the quantity of players looking for a quick throw out to 
feet. Palace came out with a flea in their ear from Colin in the second half but our Argentinian centyre forward put us three ahead on 52 mins. McAllister then took him off a few mins later and soon after Showunmi made it four nil. A quality performance. Let's build on it. McAllister : "We'll not go overboard. We'll keep a nice even keel. I stayed loyal to the same bunch at Yeovil but it was time tonight to see others. I had it my mind to give Aidy White a chance. If you are good enough you are good,enough. I want to get Paul Telfer done and dusted here. There were scouts here tonight. He is quality. I think Becchio deserved his goal. He is unselfish. I just see a wee more spring in his step every game that goes by. He's still not fit enough yet but his protection of the ball is a lesson to others. I thought Jon Douglas did particularly well. 
trouncing of Chester (who have lost every game since) in the Carling Cup first round, United have struggled to perform as an effective unit and badly need a win to get back on track. With Saturday’s game at Huish Park just 25 seconds old, it seemed United were shaping up to shoot Gary McAllister’s team back into the Championship. Argentinian striker Luciano Becchio joined last season’s top scorer Jermaine Beckford in the fans’ affections by marking his first league start for the club with a rapid goal. It was the fastest by a Leeds player since Jermaine Wright netted after 12 seconds in a 2-1 home defeat against Burnley in November 2004 but Leeds failed to press home their advantage and finished up sharing the points. McAllister responded to the defeat against Oldham by making just one change, Becchio coming in to partner Beckford in place of Enoch Showunmi, and the switch paid an immediate dividend. Yeovil central defender Terry Skiverton was slow to react to a ball 
played over the top by Rui Marques and Becchio took advantage by finding the far corner, fittingly on the day Argentina’s footballers won a gold medal at the Olympics. Yeovil lost former Huddersfield midfielder Danny Schofield after only 16 minutes, Lloyd Owusu replacing him after a clash of heads with Frazer Richardson, and much of the game was disjointed despite the early goal. The hosts’ equaliser arrived soon after the hour when they were awarded a penalty for Paul Huntington’s foul. Casper Ankergren saved Owusu’s initial attempt but the substitute made no mistake from the rebound. cAllister tried to force another breakthrough by replacing wingers Andy Robinson and Robert Snodgrass with Jonathan Douglas and Showunmi but Becchio was one of few Leeds players to look comfortable on the ball and he twice went close to adding to his early goal. The fully committed Argentinian, who was booked in the first half, was fortunate to stay on the field after several niggling challenges in a match of few highlights and too many stoppages. After completing a league double over Yeovil last season, Leeds were disappointed with a point – especially after their flying start. McAllister said: “The performance wasn’t fluent at all. Yeovil rose to the occasion by denying us space but we have to show we can play under pressure. “I was frustrated with the decision over the penalty and we looked ragged after conceding the goal. We have four home matches now and it is up to people to step up to the plate. “I thought the referee was partly to blame for making the game so scrappy by letting some bad challenges go early in the game.” It has been a frustrating start to the seaon that sees us in 12th place after three games that have yielded just four points. Massive improvement and concistency is not only needed but demanded and bringing back Dougie Freedman would certainly convince many Whites supporters that he could help swing things our way. How coincidental is it that his current employers are our next opponents ? Ken Bates that players would "be leaving before anyone arrives" as they try to "balance the books". A remarkable statement knowing that Leeds have spent damn all during the summer, with most players having arrived on free transfers. Anthony Stokes of Sunderland was the latest to be linked as McAllister is desperate to add one more striker to his ranks. Sheff Weds is thought to be his preferred destination. 
defeated Scunthorpe on opening day, and were quickly out of the hurdles. Sean Gregan marshalled the Latics defence and United went close through Robinson, Beckford and Snodgrass in the first half when the finish each time might have been better. It was the player Dennis Wise tried to sign last season, Chris Taylor who netted twice on 51 minutes and 65 minutes which ultimately decided the three points. Sandwiched in between, Showunmi was denied a cert penalty when he was assaulted to the ground by the wily Sean Gregan, but the referee waved away appeals. Minutes later Showunmi missed an easy header when the keeper was flat footed. Leeds brought on the lively Delph and Becchio but couldn't break through the Latics defence as John Sheridan's Oldham defeated Leeds twice at Elland Road in the last nine months. There 
were late chances for Beckford and Robinson but United couldn't score. Defensively Leeds conceded bad goals and personally I would blame the keeper for both although Howson needs to look at his part for the second also. Gary Mac : "The performance from our players wasn't good enough, from one to 11," said McAllister. "I thought the players would be brimming with confidence and looking to turn it on for the fans but we never got going. "There is no excuse. It wasn't acceptable and they were scrappy goals to concede." McAllister added: "Sean Gregan was the outstanding player on the park. He bossed the whole game."There will be the doomsday brigade that say McAllister isn't up to the job, but this may just be a wake up call after a 5-2 hammering of a useless Chester side. One thing is for sure. Few will bet on Oldham finishing ahead of Leeds in May. For those who believe in fate, Swansea City who romped away with league One last season, lost their first game of the 2007/08 season against (you guessed it) Oldham Athletic. They had a bad start and took just 11 points out of their first 24 points.
Palace in the second round of the Carling Cup. Palace will visit Elland Road during the week commencing August 25 after both clubs came safely through the first stage of the competition on Tuesday night. United ran out 5-2 winners during a one-sided game at Chester City, while Neil Warnock's Palace squad scored either side of half-time to seal a 2-1 victory over Hereford United at Selhurst Park. The second-round clash in Yorkshire will see the return to Elland Road of Shaun Derry, who left Leeds to rejoin his former club in January of this year. Derry – recently appointed as Palace's club captain – was signed by United from Selhurst Park in 2005 and made 78 appearances for Leeds but he was allowed to return to London after failing to establish himself in the plans of ex-Elland Road boss Dennis Wise. A good pro. I hope he gets a good reception from Leeds fans as he was ultimately driven out by Wise. 
continued their winning start to the season at the Deva Stadium with a clinical first half performance that saw them lead by five goals to one. Gary McAllister's 
men ran rings around City in the first half and with an outstanding first half hat-trick from Jermaine Beckford the highlight of a commanding United half. After just three minutes Beckford put his name of the scoresheet when he beat his marker, to slot the ball home past the outstretched arms of goalkeeper John Danby. He gave Danby no chance with his powerful second before producing a quality finish for his third, flighting a neat ball high over Danby's head and into the top right half corner. Snodgrass scored an excellent team goal on ten minutes and the classy Robsinson finished a fine move just after the half hour mark. Leeds made three changes seven minutes into the second half with Robsinon, Howson and hat-trick 
hero Beckford making way for Douglas, Johnson and Shownumi. Chester went on to win the second half 1-0 with a dodgy penalty. Shownumi could have had a hat-trick.The only dark spot was Becchio not getting off the mark, but good to see the sublime skill and breaking ability of 17 year old Fabian Delph who (like Jonny Hoswon) will go a long way in this game. Gary Mac said : 'We played some good stuff but I think tonight was purely about getting through to the next round. We gave Chester a lot of respect, played a strong side and all credit to them for keeping going in the second half. We scored some good goals, created some good chances and looked sharp up front." When asked was Beckford moving anywhere before the transfer deadline he quickly retorted "The chairman assured me he isn't going anywhere".
Hay. The spirit of Prenton Park was revived in Scunthorpe on a day when Leeds United's reputation as potential League One champions came crashing through its first examination. A victory of bloody-minded resilience against Tranmere Rovers on the first day of last season set United on course for the play-off final, and an exhilarating fight back at Glanford Park today lit the fuse of a campaign which Gary McAllister hopes will hand his club a bigger prize. Twelve months ago, Tresor Kandol's last-minute header sunk Tranmere and sent optimism flooding through United's veins. The feeling was comparable yesterday when Jermaine Beckford bundled home a crucial goal and floored Scunthorpe United with 10 minutes remaining. Beckford's goal came 19 minutes after Enoch Showunmi had struck with a timely header, beating Scunthorpe goalkeeper Josh Lillis within moments of the hosts breaking the deadlock. Nigel Adkins considers his team to be candidates for promotion in their own right and they were equal to Leeds for much of the noon kick-off which launched England's domestic season, but the sight of United turning the screw in the closing stages was clinical and impressive. The issue of McAllister's captain was publicly resolved an hour before kick-off with confirmation that Frazer Richardson would carry the armband for the first game of the season, and United's boss predictability retained the same line-up fielded in their final pre-season friendly seven days earlier. A 4-1 victory over FCV Dender at Elland Road last Saturday was enough to settle McAllister's selection policy and, in pouring rain, his players wasted fewer than two minutes in finding a path through to Scunthorpe's goal. A curling corner from Andy Robinson dropped kindly for Paul Huntington, whose weak header from eight yards failed to exploit the sort of chance which the centre-back tends to make the most of.But from a promising opening, Leeds were drawn into a congested scrap which persisted throughout a dogged first half. Glanford Park's narrow pitch prevented Robinson and Robert Snodgrass from finding space on the flanks, and possession was traded readily in a busy midfield. The hosts had two chances to take the lead during the opening 20 minutes. Grant McCann's low shot from the edge of the box was knocked clear by Hu
ntington's sliding tackle as McAllister's defence threatened to open up, and Casper Ankergren's full-blooded block countered a shot from Gary Hooper after Paul Hayes' pass had cut United's backline in half.
Aug 8th. Paul Telfer has completed a free transfer to Leeds United. The former Coventry City and Celtic defender has linked up with Leeds on a non-contract basis after a brief trial with the club earlier in the summer. Telfer has been included in Gary McAllister's squad for tomorrow's clash at Scunthorpe United
Leeds United striker Tresor Kandol on a six-month loan. United struck an agreement with their League One rivals late last night following an approach by Millwall boss Kenny Jackett, and Kandol is expected to take up the offer ahead of the start of the 2008-09 season on Saturday. The Congolese international's future has been the subject of debate this summer after he missed the start of pre-season training with a virus and failed to appear in any of United's seven senior friendlies. Kandol pulled out of Monday night's reserve-team clash with Guiseley – a withdrawal which is not believed to have been prompted by Millwall's interest – and Leeds have now sanctioned his temporary release to London. Kandol played an important role in United's run to the League One play-off final last season, scoring 11 goals, but his involvement was limited under Gary McAllister and at least four other strikers are ahead of him at Elland Road.
strive at 3/1 to win the League One Championship. There is no doubt the squad is good enough to do so. Last season's winners Swansea didn't make a great start, but had a huge unbeaten run in the middle were they picked up wins on the road and at home. Let's take a look at our squad. In goal Ankergren has little competition from Lucas, and at this level despite his nerves under crosses, he ia very good shot stopper. The back four has been steady for the last couple of friendlies. On the right there is Frazer Richardson, and on the left is Alan Sheehan with Rui Marques and Paul Huntington in the middle. It's hard to imagine a better back four in this diversion and this back four would be comfortable at the next level also. Solid at the back and goals from set plays from Huntington, Marques along with Sheehan's knack for free kick taking. this is a recipe for succes
s. Ben Parker can fill in at left back as can Bradley Johnson, big Lubo Michallik is a useful central defender to come in and Scott Gardner and Andy Hughes can also offer sufficient 
cover. Also, the versatile Paul Telfer may still get a deal with Leeds. McAllister has loads of options in the middle. Last season we had a huge lack of width. This season the impressive Andy Robinson has come in from Swansea and Robert Snodgrass has made a surprising immediate impact on his arrival from Livingston. Both swapped wings effectively against Dender with the brilliant Jon Howson in the middle beside the industrious cult hero David Prutton. Howson can only get better. The kid can go all the way. Jon Douglas may or may not go to Burnley and hasn't featured much in pre-season, but he is solid in midfield. Bradley Johnson can come in and so can the slimmed down version of Peter Sweeney with local lad Fabian Delph expected to break through this season. All in all, lots of options and that's even before Neil Kilkenny comes back from the Olympics. Up 
front it's just a matter who partners 20 goal scorer from last season, Jermain
e Beckford. Enoch Showunmi will I suspect start as Beckford's foil. H has won promotion twice from this division with Luton Town and Bristol City and whilst not prolific, he will have something to offer. When Luciano Becchio gets fit, he may score goals for fun. This guy has something I think and McAllister has backed his faith with rewarding him with a three year contract. Snodgrass can also play up 
front and his record with Livingston wasn't bad. Kandol is surplus to requirements and has been linked with a move to Millwall. Seb Sorsa is on his way to Hamilton, Westlake doesn't feature in the manager's plans and Seb Carole looks out in the cold also. the squad is well capable. Personally, I would still make a move for last season's crowd favourite, Dogie Freedman. Warnock has told him to find a club. Wouldn't it be the icing on the cake if it was a Yorkshire club !
could be Play-Off material. Leicester having just come down, and under new manager, Nigel Pearson have kept the bulk of their squad as well as adding both goalkeeper David Martin and central defender,Jack Hobbs on loan from Liverpool. They have Mattie Fryatt and Steve Howard up front and have the experienced midfield of Kishishev and Oakley. MK Dons have money to spend and will try and make it back to back promotions despite their limited fan base. A surprise package could be Colchester United who have invested £450,000 on striker Steve Gillespie, a lot of m
oney for this division. He is a direct replacement for Kevin Lisbie who left for Ipswich Town. At the back they have ex Luton captain Chris Coyne and Matt Heath. They were formidable at home as the great Leeds side once found out, but next season they start afresh in their new Community stadium. Southend went close last season but have lost some vital players but our first opponents, Scunthorpe will be aiming to go straight back up, although I suspect that Leeds and Leicester City will lead the way with Colchester in close pursuit. I'll leave the final words with manager, Gary McAllister : 
"I want the players to have the same mind set as last season, even though the circumstances are different. This time last year, they utilised the points deduction in making it a case of 'we are Leeds, no-on likes us but we just don't care'. It was a siege mentality. It has to be the same again. By that I don't necessarily mean that we don't want anyone to like us but we have to be all in this together to make sure we get off to a fast start. This is our second season in this division and that might take away a little bit of what we faced last season as playing Leeds United will not be such a novelty for our opponents. But I still feel everyone will see us as a big scalp, that is inevitable. We have to be ready for that. McAllister's focus is on leading United to promotion in the coming season, though he admits to not being able to resist looking even further ahead. There is a lot of hard work but what I do know is that the potential is here to go all the way. Everything is in place in terms of our facilities and our crowd. There is no doubt in my mind that Leeds United will get back in the Premier League, it is just a matter of when. My hope is it happens during my reign." We have a nice blend of youth aided with valuable experience. I expect this to be our year.
Jonathan Douglas. The Republic of Ireland international captained Leeds last season, but manager Gary McAllister has hinted that he could change his captain. The 26-year-old has one year left on his current deal after signing in August 2006 following a successful loan spell from Blackburn. He has made over 100 appearances for Leeds, scoring nine goals. Meanwhile, McAllister has told BBC Radio Leeds he will name his new captain later this week. "I have it sorted in my mind who it will be, but just want to name him in the lead-up to the Scunthorpe game," said McAllister. "I want 11 leaders on that pitch, and I'll grab the lads and name my captain in the middle of this week."
he has no future at Crystal Palace. The well-travelled Scot had a testimonial in midweek against Fulham but it appears he has played his last game for Palace. Freedman has revealed he has been informed by Eagles boss Neil Warnock that he is not involved in his plans for the upcoming campaign. He said: "I've spoken to Neil and he has told me that I won't feature in any squads next season. "So, I'm actively seeking the right move - but if it's not right I won't. I'm in no rush." The 34-year-old marksman spent some of last season on loan at League One side Leeds United where he scored five goals in 11 games. Freedman has previously said he would be keen on a full-time move to Elland Road. Time for Macca to finish the jigsaw and take Dougie back to Leeds on a two year contract ? Bloody sure it is !
rkshire Post saw it. When a season as important as that awaiting Leeds United approaches, there can be no better sensation for a manager than to arrive at the starting gun with a feeling of security. The purpose of yesterday's friendly between Leeds and FCV Dender was to prove to Gary McAllister that his players are primed for the League One marathon which begins in Scunthorpe next Saturday and a 4-1 victory convinced him that there is nothing more to be asked for or taken from this particular pre-season. United reserved their most coherent performance of the summer for their only home friendly and the reward for their display may come in the form of starting places at Glanford Park for the 11 players who inspired yesterday's success. Unbeaten after seven friendlies, there is little that McAllister wished for from pre-season that has not been granted. Even Tuesday's dismal draw at Darlington – a match which prompted a lock-in and choice words in United's dressing room at full-time – is no longer a cause for concern, addressed as it was by a vastly-improved approach to the visit of Dender. Efforts in the first half from Paul Huntington, Rui Marques and Jermaine Beckford sparked Dender's 
demise, but their goals were only a fraction of the chances created by Leeds against a club whose inadequacies and lack of conviction were apparent throughout. In beating the team set in front of them, United were also the masters of a somewhat disappointing side. Dender's international profile is not expansive – the club was created only three years ago, the product of a merger between two other Belgian teams – but their short history spoke of impressive progression and, before kick-off, they represented Leeds' most credible opposition of the summer.
cracked for the start of the season, the played out an abysmal scoreless draw at Darlington and were fortunate not to lose the match. Leeds first choice line up started the match but Gary McAllister and the watching Leeds fans were far from happy with the performance. McAllister today warned Leeds United's squad that his team selection for next season is wide open again after the club were held to a tepid goalless draw by Darlington.
United's players came in for stark criticism from their manager last night following an unconvincing performance in their penultimate pre-season friendly at the Darlington Arena. McAllister fielded a strong line-up against last season's League Two play-off semi-finalists and gave run-outs to all four of his summer signings, including debutant striker Robert Snodgrass, but he refused to mask his frustration after a game of few 
chances ended in stalemate. McAllister said: "It wasn't very entertaining and I'm glad I got a free ticket because I wouldn't have liked to pay for that. I can't defend (the performance) at all. It was poor. If I'm looking for something to take from that then there wasn't a great deal. "Although we kept a clean sheet, they had the better chances and I'm glad we've got that performance out of the way before the real stuff starts. "These are the guys who are trying to impress me and get in that starting XI. It wasn't enough. Of course it changes things and I just hope that the people who didn't start were looking at it and thinking about where they lie." Last night's outing fulfilled the sixth and final away match arranged by McAllister this summer, and Leeds will complete their pre-season schedule at home to FCV Dender at Elland Road on Saturday before beginning the 2008-09 League One campaign at Scunthorpe United seven days later.
McAllister, who hopes to complete the signing of Argentinian striker Luciano Becchio on a free transfer from Spanish club Merida UD in the next 24 hours, has seen his squad negotiate their pre-season schedule so far without defeat, but he held an extended discussion with the club's players in their dressing room at the Darlington Arena after full-time last night. "We've had a good chat in that dressing room," he said. "We know the standards."Teams are going to try and frustrate us like Darlington did, and this is what it's going to be like. It's not going to be easy. "We're better than that and we know we're better than that. Come the game at Elland Road on Saturday, we want to show that we can perform a lot better. "Attitude is massive in games like this and although Darlington are in a division below us, they've got a lovely stadium and the pitch is beautiful. "We don't have any excuses. Apart from David Prutton, I don't think anybody comes out of it looking good at all. "It's comes as a surprise to me because things have been bobbing along not too badly. "We know we're favourites (next season) and we're going to be under pressure. Teams are going to frustrate us and put men behind the ball but we've got to show more bottle. The players accept that. "We'll chat about it in the next couple of days, but the pressure starts to come on us from now." Becchio watched last night's goalless draw from the stands, having featured in United's friendlies against Shelbourne and Barnet, and the 24-year-old striker's transfer to Elland Road is now on the verge of completion. "We should be sorted in the next couple of days, and we just need the international clearance," said McAllister. "The little formalities of the signing should be all done and dusted, hopefully by Thursday."
eeds United – after agreeing a lucrative three-year deal with the club. The company have stepped in at the 11th hour after contractual difficulties with a proposed rival sponsor scuppered that agreement. Netflights.com managing director is lifelong Whites fan and former Huddersfield Town supremo Terry Fisher, who became the youngest chairman in the Football League when he was unveiled the Terriers' chief at the tender age of 29 in the mid-1990s. Part of the firm's portfolio is Huddersfield-based travel firm Sellers Travel, run by a familiar face to Whites fans' in 70s legend Trevor Cherry – who is hoping to be a regular visitor at Elland Road this season. Herading the deal, Mr Fisher said: "We are delighted to have concluded this commercial agreement with Leeds United. Travel companies have a great link with football clubs, as football is truly a worldwide phenomenon and netflights.com is excited to be working with the club. "For me the deal is even sweeter as I have followed Leeds since I was a small boy and this is a relationship that will bring mutual benefit to all parties."
Juy 27th. Luciano Becchio will earn a contract with United as Gary McAllister was "hugely impressed with him". "I thought he did well. He brings us something. The player responded well and is playing for his future and done well under that kind of pressure for us". Haber "has come up short" and won't get one but Macca is also trying to bring Paul Telfer to the football club also. "His physical condition is superb and he has played at the highest level. He is a player I would like to bring to the football club". 
play Championship football with Swansea, underlined his credentials as one of the outstanding players in League One.
Despite the influence of Robinson, Barnet were still worthy opponents on a scorching hot day in north London with Paul Fairclough's men providing plenty of evidence to suggest that they will challenge for a League Two play-off place.
failed to clear Nicky Deverdic's corner. That was as close as Barnet were to get in the opening half as Leeds, kicking up the notorious Underhill slope, gradually moved through the gears with Robinson pulling the strings from midfield. With Jermaine Beckford rested, McAllister was afforded the opportunity to take another look at Argentine trialist Luciano Becchio and the former Merida man came within a whisker of firing Leeds ahead after 15 minutes.
something special to beat Beckwith and with just nine minutes of the first half remaining, Robinson produced an exquisite finish to leave Leeds supporters licking their lips at what could await them this season.
Snodgrass signs up and Elding eventually goes. Leeds United have beaten off stiff competition from north and south of the border - and abroad - to land highly-rated ex-Livingston ace Robert Snodgrass, their fourth summer signing. The fans' favourite, 20, was a free agent after turning down a lucrative double-your-money offer to stay at Almondvale. But Livi are entitled to compensation with the player being under 23, with a deal having been struck. The Scotland U-21 starlet, who had set his heart on a switch to England, said: "This move is a dream come true. "Over the years, a lot of Scots have done well here and I want to try and get to the next level now." The Tartan raider exploded onto the first-team scene in 2005 and was linked with a sensational switch to Barcelona the following year with the Spanish giants offering him a trial. But after speaking with coach John Robertson, he elected to stay at Livi to continue his first-team development. Last season, Snodgrass, who started out at Livi under the tutelage of Paul Lambert - a former Scotland team-mate of Leeds boss Gary McAllister - showcased his talents on the left-wing, scoring an impressive 10 goals, alerting a host of clubs. Barnsley and United's League One rivals Crewe, Carlisle, Hartlepool and Leyton Orient were all keen on the forward-cum-winger - along with two unnamed German clubs. Scottish trio Dundee, Hamilton and Kilmarnock were also in the hunt, while Premiership outfit West Brom have kept tabs on Snodgrass - who has a penchant for scoring spectacular goals - in the past. Striker, Anthony Elding will not be part of the plans, however, after signing for Crewe Alexandra for an undisclosed fee believed to be at least £100,000.
Leeds 
United's tour of Ireland drew to a close with a 1-1 draw against Shelbourne at Tolka Park. Paul Huntington's header at the end of the first half cancelled out Anthony Flood's 23rd-minute strike and maintained United's unbeaten pre-season record after four matches.Leeds boss Gary McAllister named trialist striker Luciano Becchio in his starting line-up and also gave Canadian forward Marcus Haber another outing as a substitute, while a fier
y game saw four of United's players booked. In a bad tempered friendly that ended with Shels goalscorer, Ant Flood ending up with a broken leg from a horrific tackle by Rui Marques, no quarter was asked for or given. The Louth Branch were well represented and witnessed Howson cracking the crossbar in the first hald and Sweeney hitting the post in the last few minutes. Good chances were wasted by Becchio, Haber and Shownumi. Over 3,000 Leeds fans were in attendance with barely a couple of hundred Shels fans evident. 
teenage striker Tomi Ameobi to Doncaster Rovers. Ameobi has spent the past week training with Rovers and has impressed manager Sean O'Driscoll enough to earn a deal. Doncaster have agreed an appearance-related fee with Leeds, for whom the forward made just two first-team appearances. Whites boss Gary McAllister told the club's official website: "Opportunities would have been limited for Tomi this season. "I am looking to strengthen in terms of strikers and we have some young players coming through in that area as well. "We wish Tomi all the best for the future." Leeds United are giving a trial to former Barcelona and Mallorca striker Luciano Becchio. The 24-year-old Argentinian started his career at Bocca Juniors and last season scored 28 goals in 50 appearances for Spanish Second Division side Merida. Becchio will make his debut for Leeds in Ireland tomorrow night in a friendly against Shelbourne. He is the most recent of a number of strikers linked with Leeds, although hopes of bringing Hull City’s former Bradford City front man Dean Windass to Elland Road seem to have receded, with his agent John Hendrie saying: “Dean wants another crack at the Premier League.” Meanwhile, Leeds assistant manager Steve Staunton faces a fine and possible touchline ban after pleading guilty to an FA charge of misconduct. The charge arises out of remarks Staunton is alleged to have made following Leeds’ defeat in the play-off final at Wembley.
United dominated most of the match but had to come from two goals down at half time to win the match. Goals from Marrques (55 mins), Haber (68 mins) and Howson (83mins) made it two wins from two. Leeds wore their second away strip for the first time which is sure to be a winner.
ear-old striker. United and Wolves have reached agreement over the terms of Bothroyd's mooted transfer to Elland Road, but the former Perugia and Charlton forward is taking his time to consider the option of dropping into League One. Bothroyd, who played for Coventry City while Gary McAllister was manager at Highfield Road, has 12 months left to run on his contract at Molineux, and sources in the West Midlands claim he is in two minds over the chance to continue his career with Leeds. A move to Yorkshire would almost certainly require Bothroyd to accept a sizeable drop in wages – he is believed to be earning in the region of £8,000 a week with Wolves – but United are hoping to exploit his lack of involvement with Mick McCarthy's first-team squad. The striker is surplus to requirements at Molineux and spent a month on loan at Stoke City last season having drifted out of contention under McCarthy. He was omitted from the Wolves squad which contested a pre-season friendly against Hereford United on Wednesday evening, and did not embark on the club's tour of Scotland today. He was named instead in a second-string squad to play Chasetown last night. Wolves have made it clear that they will allow Bothroyd to find a new club this summer, and they have accepted United's offer for the player. The fee is understood to be worth six figures, rising to a maximum of around £300,000 depending on appearances. Officials at Molineux are said to be sceptical about the likelihood of Bothroyd accepting a transfer to Leeds, but his intentions are likely to become clearer next week. McAllister plans to add two new strikers to his squad before the start of the season, on top of the deal agreed with Enoch Showunmi, and he will hope to persuade Bothroyd that a transfer to Leeds could lead to a long and successful stay at Elland Road. Bothroyd's career has seen him play in Serie A with Perugia and in the Premier League with both Charlton and Blackburn Rovers, and he has been part of the squad at Wolves since the summer of 2006.
United's first leg of the Pre-season Irish tour. The match saw former Coventry, Soton and Celtic defender,Paul Telfer 
Leeds went ahead through Beckford after 25 minutes after he converted an Andy Hughes cross. It was very much lacklustre as United made their first appearance since the Wembley defeat to Doncaster. All three new signings, Sheehan, Robinson and Showunmi made their debut in the second half when United opted to field an entirely different 11. Just one crumb of comfort. Good to see Sgt Wilko's son, Ben make his full debut for Leeds United. The game fizzled out in the second half and Gary Mac will be looking for a lot better from his charges as they head for the Emerald Isle. 
to defend his controversial move to Turkish champions Galatasaray after facing a public outcry from fans and former associates at his previous club Leeds United, many of whom have objected to his decision to join the club. Kewell’s transfer has antagonised fans who have been reminded of Leeds’ Uefa Cup semi-final in Istanbul against Galatasaray in 2000, when two fans, Christopher Loftus and Kevin Speight, were stabbed to death on the eve of the tie. Leeds players were later pelted with missiles during the match despite the presence of riot police. The former Liverpool midfielder had initially hoped to play down the criticisms, saying: “It is a sad part of football history, but what happened in the past is in the past – we have to look forward.” However, sustained disapproval from, among others, former Leeds chairman Peter Ridsdale and the chairman of the Leeds United Supporters’ Club, Ray Fell, who described the move as “callous” and “sickening”, has prompted Kewell to address th
e issue in an open letter to Leeds fans. “To blame the Galatasaray club for the tragedy in Istanbul is simply wrong and discriminatory,” he said. “For me, sport should first and foremost be about the love of your game. However, as equally important is the respect for not only your team-mates but all those who you compete against. For this reason, I have always objected to any form of discrimination in any sport and football in particular as that is the sport that is the most near and dear to me.” He added: “My love and respect for Leeds United and what the club has done for me will never change, no matter what anyone says about me and whatever their motives are. My sense of sorrow and sympathy for the families and friends of Christopher Loftus and Kevin Speight will always be with me. “I chose the No 19 shirt when I signed for Galatasaray as a sign of respect for Leeds because that was the number I got when I first became a regular member of the Leeds starting XI. I felt that it might demonstrate that I had not forgotten where it all started and I was hoping that in a small way it would help the healing process of the tragedy that occurred on April 5 2000.”
s with oceans of talent but the takers in life. Kewell managed to net 61 goals in 242 games for Leeds and for three seasons in particular at Elland Road was completely unstoppable. Man United offered hard up Leeds £15M for the Aussie's services. Legend has it that Liverpool paid £7M for Kewell with the club seeing just £3M and the balance taken up by the player and his representatives. Liverpool even stiffened Leeds with the £27,000 bill for his insurance premium during his first season at Anfield because he signed two days into a new policy. Liverpool in the end got done by their own greed as Kewell contributed little, happy to accept his £60,000 plus salary per week whilst perennially injured. He played in 168 games for the Scousers scoring just 16 goals. When asked to take a wage cut, he refused and moved as free agent. Roma, Celtic and Portsmouth all lead the queue of clubs willing to sign the Aussie - but he signed for arguably the one club that Leeds United fans despise more than any other - Galatasary. Let's turn the club back to March 9th 2000. Harry Kewell was in a vintage season when he netted 17 goals, and had just scored the only goal of the whole tie against Roma in the Uefa Cup. The Louth Branch had some terrific nights and in huge numbers viewed every live European exploit with increased anticipation. The Yorkshire club disposed of Slavia Prague over the next two legs when once again, Kewell netted home and away. Then came Istanbul and Galatasary. Tension was running high even before two Leeds fans were murdered (Kevin Speight and Christopher loftus) by Turkish yobs. The game nearly didn't take place when behind the scenes hasty talks were taken place between Uefa, Leeds and Galatasary. The small contingent of Leeds fans turned their backs in protest when both sides entered the stadium. Leeds were as nervous and fearful as kittens on a hob as they entered the stadium shielded by the Turkish army from supporters baying for blood. There is a famous photo of Kewell caught like a rabbit in headlights. (see below left). The result was secondary as two fans lay dead on an Istanbul hospital slab. Leeds lost 2-0 and drew the replay 2-2 when Kewell was sent off among emotional scenes. This was a time Leeds fans will never forget. When quizzed about this, Kewell responded :“It is a sad part of football history but what happened in the past is in the past. It’s not right to dwell on the past, we have got to look forward. We all love the game so much and I am here because I respect the game and I want to play the game.” He added: “I’m excited and I’m thrilled to bits. I am looking forward to the new challenge.Ray Fell, chairman of Leeds United Supporters Club, revealed: “I know that many of our fans will be totally appalled by what Kewell has done. They will see this as callous, uncaring and a real kick in the teeth to them, the two lads who so tragically lost their lives and the club itself. Personally, I am shocked. I am extremely disappointed that any member of that Leeds squad – who along with team-mates, the families of Kevin and Christopher and everyone else 
connected with the club who endured the trauma and sadness of that occasion – could sign for Galatasaray. For us now to have to see one of our ex-players from that sad time taking the applause from Galatasaray fans will be sickening. But that will not be the attitude of our fans. Let’s just say that, from their point of view, Kewell will never be welcome back in Leeds.” Forget that Kewell has screwed Liverpool by taking the king's ransom in Turkey after contributing little time at his day job. But don't forget what Kewell has done. Yes, Constantine is a player Leeds fans will admire and fondly remember, but Kewell , the player who could have achieved it all will never be welcome at Elland Road or in Leeds again. Foolish boy ! I wonder what our current president of the LUSC and friend of Kewell, Gary Kelly would make of it all. 
Foxes, although City are entitled a payment because he is under 24. Both clubs are discussing a fee, but if they are unable to thrash out a figure, it will be decided at a tribunial. The free-kick specialist played ten times for United after signing on loan in January and memorably fired home a stunning free-kick in Leeds' 1-0 derby win at Doncaster on April 1. Boss Gary McAllister said: "I'm pleased. When we first bought him in, he struggled a little bit, but he was the first to admit that. "The jump from reserve team to first team may have been a bit too much, but he worked very hard, came back and did ever so well." Leeds will be without Neil Kilkenny for the early weeks of the season as he joins the Aussie Olympic squad in China, whilst United have been linked with moves for strikers Ben Burgess of Blackpool and Roy O'Donovan formerly of Cork City and currently with Sunderland. The latter appears to be a runner as we were already linked with the player last season and Roy Keane is interested in having the player loaned out for the season. Meanwhile, Eddie Gray has joined Yorkshire Radios's commentary team in a move that may displease some on the LUSC committee given that he resigned recently as President over the clash between LUSC and LUFC.
Leeds may be lining up a move for Darren Byfield. Byfield is available on a free transfer following his release from Bristol City at the end of last season. The former Aston Villa youngster was surprisingly allowed to leave Ashton Gate despite finishing as the club's top scorer last season. Byfield's availability have made him an attractive proposition to a number of clubs looking to bolster their attacks. Doncaster and Swansea are thought have enquired about Byfield and now Leeds have joined the chase for the 31-year-old. Leeds boss Gary McAllister is an admirer of the former Sunderland and Gillingham ace and sees Byfield as the man who help boost their bid to win promotion to the Championship.
n Nemeth and Astrit Ajdarevic to join up with the club for pre-season training with a view to signing both players on loan. The talented teenagers will be given the chance to work alongside United's first-team squad next month as boss Gary McAllister considers the possibility of adding the pair to his pool of players for the 2008-09 League One season. Nemeth – signed by Liverpool from MTK Hungaria last summer – is a 19-year-old striker whose goals helped the Anfield club win the FA Premier Reserve League title last season and earned him a call-up to Hungary's international squad last month.
Kosovan-born player holds Swedish nationality and played for the Scandinavian country in the recent UEFA European Under-17 Championship. He was also involved with the Liverpool side which lifted the FA Youth Cup last year.
Northampton on May 2nd and Sky will broadcast our Carling Cup tie at the Deva Stadium on Tuesday, August 12th. Click on 
scored just four goals for Fulham this season. It is difficult to see Healy upping his roots in London for Yorkshire but the signing would be a huge hit with the fans and signal our intent for next season. Leeds have announced that season tickets have sailed through the 10,000 mark and the best supported side outside the Premiership have also arranged a friendly against Sporting Lokeren at Elland Road on August 12th, the week before the season kicks off. The Andy Cole signing appears to be running some what luke warm but Burnley and Leeds are still in the running for Derek Riordan. Elsewhere, last season target, Steve Davies of Tranmere appears to be heading to Derby County and Dougie Freedman is to see if he will feature next season in Neil Warnock's plans. 
er's number one striking choice, Leeds were linked with an audacious bid for Kevin Phillips of WBA. Phillips is out of contract and is stalling on a new deal because he wants a two year contract instead of the one on the table. Phillips will not be moving to League One Leeds. Riordan, is a decent prospect who flourished with Hibs but has had few opportunities with the Bhoys. Leeds are thought to be keen on a £500,000 bid but Celtic want nearer £1M and Burnley are also monitoring the deal, with Owen Coyle an ex Celt familiar with the scottish market. Speaking in April, Riordan said: "I've virtually chucked it at Celtic. What's the point when I'm not getting a chance? "I've been here two years and it's not happened yet so I don't see it happening now. I like it here and would love to prove myself but the nasty thing is not playing."As many as five clubs 
attempted to sign Riordan on loan in January, Burnley failed in their attempt to strike a permanent deal with a bid of around £400,000, and potential buyers will be asked to offer in the region of £1million to secure his release before the start of next term. It is understood that Riordan would be willing to seriously consider a move to Elland Road, regardless of the club's failure to regain their place in the Championship. The forward has 12 months remaining on the three-year contract he agreed with Celtic in 2006. His eight league starts in Glasgow have yielded five goals, but Riordan's prowess was more vividly display in Edinburgh, where he turned professional with Hibs and scored 54 goals in 123 SPL appearances. He produced 23 goals during the 2004-05 season and 20 over the course of the following campaign, earning himself a transfer to one half of the Old Firm. Norwich City appear to be keen on Jermaine Beckford but McAllister believes that Beckford will score the goals to take us automatically to the next level. Leeds have released Darren Kenton. and Alan Thompson has retired from the game.