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Tuesday July 31st 2001
Great end to Sweden tour
We completed our Scandinavian tour with another excellent win and promising performance, beating Gais 4-0, with goals from Ian Harte (2), Olivier Dacourt and Mark Viduka.
It means that our final Swedish goal tally is 16 goals for and none against, in just three outings.
Tuesday July 31st 2001
Sky win UEFA Cup battle
Sky Sports have won the rights to screen all our home UEFA Cup games next season, beating off competition from the BBC and Channel 5. The matches will be shown on Thursday nights on Sky's digital channel, alongside Chelsea's games. If there is a clash on the same night, viewers will get the opportunity to choose from either game, usin the channel's interactive feature.
Both clubs' away games are, however, still available, as are the rights to Ipswich's matches and those of Newcastle and Aston Villa should they qualify via the Intertoto Cup. Many supporters, who will be attending Leeds home games in any case, will be more concerned who gets the away fixtures. Unless you live in the Yorkshire area, you will be forgiven for hoping YTV don't get some sort of special deal again. It would be nice if they went to Sky, BBC or Channel 5.
Tuesday July 31st 2001
Ridsdale meets council officials
Peter Ridsdale will meet with city council officials today to discuss the options available to United with regards to a possible ground move.
Since he originally hinted at a move away from Elland Road, the Leeds chairman has made strong indications that the majority of the club's fans were in favour of a switch to a new purpose-built stadium.
A feasibility study was commissioned, with Ridsdale maintaining a redevelopment of Elland Road could eventually prove as costly as building a new stadium from scratch.
Many United fans are understandably reluctant to move away from Elland Road, a ground that has become synonymous with the club, and its successes, down the years.
But while anxious to keep hold of the club's traditions, Ridsdale at least wants to look at all the options open to United, as the club look to the future.
Letters will be sent to fans as a result of today's meeting, highlighting the matters that were discussed and those given consideration.
But whatever the outcome, Ridsdale will be keen to maintain the fans' favour and make a decision which the majority of United fans would welcome.
Tuesday July 31st 2001
Gray happy with Swedish tour
Eddie Gray has revealed the club have been pleased with their three-match tour of Sweden, which ends with tonight's game against Gais.
United are riding on the crest of a wave having scored 12 goals without reply in their two games so far - a 6-0 win over Jonkoping Sondra, and last Saturday's 6-0 rout of Kungsbacka.
Not surprisingly, manager David O'Leary will use as many players available to him to give them as much match action as possible.
The fact the tour so far has been injury-free has been another bonus to United, but assistant-boss Gray was keen to stress the games have served a useful purpose.
He said: "We're very pleased with the work-outs we've had on the tour. We were expected to come here and win the games quite comfortably because they are not too taxing.
"But the opposition will get tougher as we build up to the season with more pre-season matches."
United continue their preparations for the new Premiership season this Friday, when they travel to the Republic of Ireland to take on Dublin City at Tolka Park.
Also included in the club's schedule is a trip to Deepdale to face Preston next Tuesday, as well as another overseas excursion, this time to Holland to face Sparta Rotterdam on Friday, August 10.
Tuesday July 31st 2001
United near 30,000 mark
United's ticket sales continue to go from strength to strength ahead of the new season with 26,500 season tickets sold so far.
The news means United can virtually guarantee a sold-out Elland Road for all their league games this coming season.
Many supporters missed out on the chance to watch the club's high-profile games in the Champions League last season, most notably United's semi-final clash against Spanish outfit Valencia.
And with more European football guaranteed this season through the UEFA Cup, United have set a new record for season tickets sold, with fans anxious not to miss out again.
United have also been boosted by a deal with Sky Sports, who will show all the games United play at home in the UEFA Cup this season.
The opponents David O'Leary's men will face in the first round of the tournament will be discovered on Friday, August 24 when the draw is made by UEFA.
Speaking on United’s official website, chairman Peter Ridsdale commented: "Sky's coverage of our UEFA campaign for this coming season is building further on the long-standing relationship between Sky TV and the Premiership clubs in this country and we are delighted to make this announcement."
Tuesday July 31st 2001
Dyer suffers comeback blow
Reported Leeds target Kieron Dyer is believed to have suffered a setback in his recovery from injury after picking up a leg muscle problem.
The 22-year-old fell in training during a run-of-the-mill workout with the Newcastle United squad, thereby forcing him to re-use his crutches.
Dyer has been battling to get back into the first-team frame at St James' Park ahead of the new season after missing much of last term following a double operation for a shin splints injury last February.
The £20million-rated England midfielder, thought to be David O'Leary's number one transfer target, was said to be ahead of schedule in his rehabilitation, with a return to Bobby Robson's first team scheduled for a month's time.
According to The Sun, the new injury is not connected to the shin problem but that comeback date will now have to be reassessed after Dyer was told not to train for at least a week by Newcastle's doctors.
Monday July 30th 2001
Ridsdale - New signings unlikely
Peter Ridsdale has revealed it is looking increasingly unlikely Leeds will make any new signings ahead of the new season.
The chairman claims David O'Leary has struggled to make any inroads into the transfer market to bring some big names to the club, but is confident the current squad can bring silverware to Elland Road.
Ridsdale has refused to completely rule out The Whites managing to seal one or two transfers in the next few weeks, as the chairman is the first to admit that anything can happen between now and the Southampton game on August 18.
He said: "You can never tell but it is looking likely we will start the season with the same squad.
"We are trying to keep the squad together. I think we showed last season that the squad was good enough to compete.
"The results were much better in the latter part of the season when we got over most of our injuries."
Monday July 30th 2001
Dutch scouting mission denied
Peter Ridsdale has denied Leeds are one of the clubs watching Ajax youngster Rafael Van der Vaart in the Amsterdam tournament.
It was thought Leeds had sent a scout to the four-team competition involving Liverpool, Ajax, AC Milan and Valencia to run the rule over the teenage star, but the chairman is adamant they are not tracking the 18-year-old.
"I've never even heard of him," he said.
The Ajax starlet has scored seven goals in 27 appearances for the Dutch outfit and is attracting interest from a number of top European clubs.
Monday July 30th 2001
Keane set for Gais encounter
Robbie Keane is set to start tomorrow night's final game of Leeds' Swedish tour after bagging a brace against Kungsbacka.
The Republic of Ireland international came on after an hour and made an immediate impact - scoring twice and having a hand in another of Leeds' six goals.
David O'Leary is set to ring the changes yet again for the final match of the tour, but the Irishman is likely to give Keane a chance to impress from the start.
O'Leary also has to decide who will play in goal, with Danny Milosevic and Nigel Martyn yet to concede a goal between them in the first two games.
Monday July 30th 2001
Old boy makes successful comeback
Former Leeds centre-half David Wetherall has made a successful comeback with Bradford after an injury ravaged campaign last season.
Wetherall spent three months on the sidelines between November and February suffering from a groin problem and played his final game for The Bantams in March when the injury resurfaced.
He has now had an operation to clear up the problem but made his comeback on Bradford's tour of Northern Ireland on Saturday.
Ironically Wetherall came on as a second half substitute for another Leeds old boy Robert Molenaar in the 4-0 win over Bangor.
Sunday July 29th 2001
Eirik's playing a blinder
Looks like Bakke's form in Sweden is getting him noticed - for all the right reasons. The player had, by his own admission, something of a "stop start" campaign last time round, following an impressive first season with us. However, just as Smithy bounced back from an injury impaired season last year, so supporters will be hoping Eirik can do the same in 2001-2. The signs in Sweden look excellent:
Speaking to Yorkshire Sport, Risdale commented: "We always knew when we signed Eirik that he was a quality player who could get forward and score goals and he is now showing the form we came to expect of him.
"It is great news to Leeds that Eirik is playing so well. He has set the standards for pre-season and now it is up to the rest of the lads to follow him."
Sunday July 29th 2001
DOL slams Vieira
Any suggestion that Vieira might be the "mystery player" DOL has been shadowing were dashed today, when the Leeds manager slammed the french international in a Sunday tabloid. Recognising similarities with the problems he encountered with Hasselbaink three years ago, DOL commented:
"Arsenal are confidently insisting Patrick will honour his contract and that the matter is closed. I hope they are right, but in my experience these things can often rumble on under the surface. Already, Vieira and his agent have undermined his manager and his club. It must have cast a huge cloud over Arsenal at a time when you want to be looking forward to the new season with confidence and optimism. And no matter how many denials follow, it's only natural that it can damage morale and that there will be unrest, mistrust and uncertainty about how it will be concluded."
Saturday July 28th 2001
Whites hit another six of the best
Leeds have thrashed Kungsbacka 6-0 tonight in their latest tour game in Sweden, with wo goals apiece for Alan Smith and Robbie Keane. This follows nicely on from their 6-0 thrashing of Jonkoping Sodra in their opening Scandinavian game on Thursday night.
The Swedish tour concludes with a trip to Gothenburg on Tuesday. Hopefully, this will provide a much sterner test than the opening two encounters, as we look to increase our match-readiness for the new season.
Saturday July 28th 2001
£25 million Dyer?
According to reports today, the Mags have placed a ludicrous price tag of £25million on Kieron Dyer.
His valuation seems to increase by a couple of million every week, despite the fact that he has been injured for the best part of six months. I just hope all the rumours are just paper talk.
The idea of including Bridges plus a huge wad of cash is a complete joke. If Dyer is worth £25 million, then Bridges must be worth at least £20 million. Thankfully, though, with Bridges expected to be sidelined until September at the earliest, following minor knee surgery, any possible deal involving him as part exchange would have to be shelved until then. Hopefully, by then, we will have come to our senses!
Friday July 27th 2001
Ridsdale clarifies DOL situation
Following Risdale's comments earlier this week, he has now rejected claims that he is using emotional blackmail on supporters, in correlating a move away from Elland Road with DOL leaving us, possibly for Old Trafford.
Speaking to the Yorkshire Post today, he says: "David wants to be the manager of Leeds United whether we are at Elland Road or anywhere else."
"It has been suggested that we could lose him if we do not move - but that is just nonsense."
Friday July 27th 2001
Another Swedish cricket score!
Leeds enjoyed an extremely comfortable 6-0 win over Jonkoping Sodra in the opening match of the Sweden tour, with Eirik Bakke scoring a couple of goals.
Bakke said: "This season I aim to keep away from injuries and try to be like I was in my first season. I need a good pre-season and then I will have to try and force my way into the team."
Mark Viduka, Lee Bowyer, Alan Smith and an own goal completed the scoring.
The starting line up was: Milosevic, Kelly, Radebe, Matteo, Harte, Burns, Dacourt, Bakke, Wilcox, Viduka and Keane.
The reserves, Duberry, Cansdell-Sherriff, Mills, Ferdinand, Bowyer, Smith, Kewell, Batty all came on on the hour, apart from Stephen McPhail who came on at half-time.
Friday July 27th 2001
Rio eyes England vice-captaincy
Rio Ferdinand has put himself forward to be England's vice-captain after getting a taste of the role last season at club level with Leeds.
Ferdinand was handed the captain's armband at Elland Road following an injury to Lucas Radebe just a couple of months into his £18million move from West Ham.
The 22-year-old centre-half has been an ever-present in Eriksson's new-look England team and seems to have cemented his position as first-choice for both club and country.
Although he realises that David Beckham has been named England captain, Ferdinand feels that Eriksson could appoint a deputy in case the Manchester United midfielder is ever injured or suspended.
Ferdinand and Leeds team-mate Alan Smith have recently returned from a trip to Japan to view the 2002 World Cup stadia, leaving both players suitably impressed and desperate to play a part in an England World Cup final campaign.
"We simply have to be a part of the 2002 World Cup. It's going to be a huge event, and if the stadiums I saw out there are anything to go by we'll be missing out big time by not being there," Ferdinand said.
"Alan Smith and I were the first English players to go to the stadium where the World Cup Final will be played and I will be telling the England boys about how amazing it will be to play there.
"It makes it a must to qualify for next year."
Of the prospect of getting the England vice-captaincy, Ferdinand added on bigfanof: "I must admit it's every player's dream to captain your country and I'm no different. If there were injuries next year and David (Beckham) couldn't captain the side and I was asked to do the job it would be unreal.
"The thought of leading England out in Japan next year gives me a buzz like no other."
Friday July 27th 2001
Trio on light duties
Michael Bridges, Paul Robinson and Jon Woodgate have begun light training at home as the rest of the squad are put through their paces in Sweden.
The trio were all in for treatment on Wednesday but had a day-off on Thursday and are expected to continue their light work today.
Robinson is expected to be fit for the start of the campaign having recovered from a fractured little finger, Bridges at some point in mid-September, although he himself has not given up hope of being ready for the start, though Woodgate's knee injury has had no time span put on it.
Thursday July 26th 2001
Leeds move 'would keep' O'Leary
Peter Ridsdale has hinted that Leeds must move to a new 55,000-seater stadium if they are to keep manager David O'Leary and fund his ambitions.
The Whites chairman is ready to reveal details of the proposed new stadium on the outskirts of the city as the club explore ways of increasing their revenue and fan base. Ridsdale believes the move must be given the full backing by the fans if they are to hang on to O'Leary, who last week said the move was necessary in order to compete with Manchester United and Liverpool.
O'Leary has been consistently linked with the Manchester United hot-seat, and although Ridsdale yesterday reiterated that the highly-rated manager will be 'going nowhere', the Leeds supremo wants to build an environment that will keep the £1million-a-year boss from crossing the Pennines.
"I believe we have the best young manager in the country," Ridsdale said. "We have backed him at every opportunity since he took charge.
"And we want to put ourselves in a position where we can keep doing that to make the team even stronger."
O'Leary has already given his full backing to a proposed move to the site on the M1-A1 link road near Garforth, believing a move would help 'bridge the gap' that currently exists between themselves and some of their rivals.
"It is the right way for us to go if we want to become a really big club," said O'Leary.
"We simply can't pay the wages of a Manchester United or Liverpool, and that is what's holding us back. We need a 55,000-seater stadium to increase revenue and help us bridge that gap."
Leeds have failed to enter the transfer market this summer and Ridsdale added: "I realise that everyone wants us to spend money on new players.
"But we must ensure that we maximise our income first. That is the most important thing. The problem at the moment is not just the restrictions of the current 40,000 ground capacity," he told The Mirror.
"But also, there is a shortage of facilities and that means we cannot compete with certain other clubs."
Thursday July 26th 2001
Boss sets targets
David O'Leary has stated his aims for the coming season and the first and foremost ambition is to qualify for next season's Champions League.
Many fans have set their sights on the title for the forthcoming campaign, as have many of the players, but the manager wants to ensure Champions League football before anything else.
O'Leary said: "My aim for the new term is to put this club back in the Champions League.
"I want to see us there year in year out because that is the competition that is more important then anything else.
"It is disappointing if you are not involved especially as we have had a taste and we like it.
"Leeds United should be a Champions League club on a regular basis, if we can win other things that will be a bonus, but the goal this season is to finish in a Champions League spot."
Thursday July 26th 2001
Pre-season starts tonight
Leeds start their pre-season friendlies tonight with the first match on their tour of Sweden when they face Jonkoping Sodra at 6pm our time.
Everyone who travelled in the party is fit, so that gives the all-clear to the likes of Michael Duberry, Robbie Keane, Lucas Radebe, Stephen McPhail and Gary Kelly who were all injured at the end of last season.
Leeds are likely to make wholesale changes at half-time tonight and most of the players will get some sort of run-out, but what will be interesting is who will be named captain, Lucas or Rio Ferdinand.
Eddie Gray said: "We are going to give as many players as possible a run-out, these tours are mainly fitness exercises."
Wednesday July 25th 2001
Ridsdale: O'Leary is going nowhere
Chairman Peter Ridsdale has denied that he would allow David O'Leary to leave for Old Trafford, insisting the manager is staying put.
Recent reports had suggested that the Elland Road supremo had said he would not stand in his manager's way if he wanted to take over at Old Trafford following Sir Alex Ferguson's retirement at the end of the next season.
Ridsdale has moved to quash the speculation however, saying that he and O'Leary have discussed the matter but his subsequent comments were taken out of context.
"Let me make one thing very clear to Leeds supporters, David O'Leary is going nowhere and he and I are in this together," said Ridsdale.
"Our major aim is to bring success and silverware to Leeds United."
When asked about who would be the best man to take over at Old Trafford, Ridsdale told the The Whites' official website: "I don't care about the best man for the Manchester United job, I care about the best man for the Leeds United job and we've got him."
Wednesday July 25th 2001
Aussie set to push Harte
Aussie left-back Shane Cansdell-Sheriff has been included in the squad for the tour of Sweden as Leeds look to keep Ian Harte on his toes.
The decision to take Cansdell-Sheriff to Scandinavia raised a few eyebrows, even though he delivered a number of outstanding displays for the reserves last season.
He was deployed as a centre-back for the second team but his lack of inches means he is being groomed as a left-back.
With Harte the only recognised left-back at the club, many expect Leeds to buy another player but Cansdell-Sheriff now has the opportunity to press his claims.
There is no place in the squad for for Michael Bridges, who is still injured and has not played since last October. He should be back by mid-September
Jonathon Woodgate, who has a knee injury and has not played since January, has also been omitted, as has Paul Robinson, who is still recovering from an operation on a fractured finger.
Full squad: Martyn, Milosevic, Kelly, Duberry, Mills, Ferdinand, Radebe, Harte, Dacourt, Bowyer, Bakke, Smith, Kewell, Viduka, Wilcox, Burns, Batty, Matteo, Keane, McPhail, Cansdell-Sheriff.
Wednesday July 25th 2001
Masinga set for Sky Blues
Former Leeds striker Phil Masinga will have a medical this week after agreeing a two-year deal which will take him from Bari to Coventry.
The 32-year-old South Africa international striker is leaving the Serie B outfit after their relegation from the Italian top flight last season to join up again with Coventry boss Gordon Strachan.
The pair played together during Masinga's two-season spell at Leeds United between 1994 and 1996 where he was known to the Elland Road faithful as 'Waltzing Masinga'.
Masinga joined Leeds from Mamelodi Sundowns for £275,000, which was £25,000 more than Leeds paid for his mate Lucas Radebe, in June 94 and left in July 96 to join Gallen in Switzerland for £423,000.
He scored 11 goals in 38 appearances for Leeds in all competitions and famously got an extra time hat-trick against Walsall at Elland Road in an FA Cup third round tie in his first season.
Meanwhile, Derby's Seth Johnson has signed an extension to his contract at Pride Park, ending talk that he could be set for a move to Elland Road and was one of the players Leeds were targeting.
Wednesday July 25th 2001
Leeds jet off
Leeds' preparations for the new Premiership season begin in earnest tomorrow as David O'Leary's men take on Jonkoping Sodra.
The Whites fly out to Sweden today, and it will be interesting to see what O'Leary's starting line-up is going to be when they kick-off at 8pm local time on Thursday night.
Leeds follow that with a match on Saturday against Kungsbacka (4pm local time kick-off) and finish the tour on Tuesday against Gais of Gothenburg with a 7pm kick-off.
Leeds fly home on August 1 before taking on Dublin City at Tolka Park on Friday, August 3 at 8pm.
Wednesday July 25th 2001
Youngster opts for Fulham
Fulham have beaten Leeds to the signature of highly-rated England Under-17 international winger Sean Doherty from Everton.
A deal was agreed last night for the talented left-sided youngster for an undisclosed fee and he will go straight into Fulham's youth academy set-up.
Doherty spent a week at Leeds but chose to head to London - a decision which has delighted everybody at Fulham.
He is expected to challenge for a reserve-team place within a year and could be a first-team regular in two years.
Wednesday July 25th 2001
Is the UEFA Cup such a doddle?
Is anyone else as surprised by me by the likes of DOL and the Chief confidently claiming that we can win the UEFA Cup over the forthcoming season? Clearly, it's true, especially following two superb Europeam campaigns in the last two seasons. However, I can't help but by appearing too over confident, we might be cruising for a big fall.
I'm especially intrigued by Radebe's comments that, if we'd been in the "easier" UEFA Cup last season, we would have reached the final. It all seems rather illogical to me, especially given the "sudden death" nature of the UEFA. OK...as Luckypool proved last season, the opposition is often p*ss-poor in the early rounds - but you only get the one opportunity, over the two legs. Had we lost 4-0 to Barca in the opening match of UEFA Cup competition, it would have been a very short run indeed!
Tuesday July 24th 2001
Cansdell-Sherriff gets surprise nod
Highly-rated Australian youngster, Shane Cansdell-Sherriff, has been included in DOL's 21 man squad to tour Sweden in a series of pre-season friendlies. Shane's inclusion is a surprise but follows rave reviews for his end of season reserve team performances, following a switch from midfield to central defence.
He is now being talked of as a possible long term partner for Rio. Significantly, Jon Woodgate is not included in the squad. Injured, he is left behind - for a tour in which he needed to shine, in order to have any chance of being included early season. With the dreaded retrial due to start in October, many experts are even suggesting his career, at Elland Road at least, might be over.
Full squad:
Nigel Martyn, Danny Milosevic, Danny Mills, Gary Kelly, Michael Duberry, Rio Ferdinand, Lucas Radebe, Dominic Matteo, Ian Harte, Shane Cansdell-Sherriff, David Batty, Olivier Dacourt, Lee Bowyer, Eirik Bakke, Stephen McPhail, Jacob Burns, Jason Wilcox, Harry Kewell, Robbie Keane, Alan Smith and Mark Viduka.
Tuesday July 24th 2001
Bridges 'scare story' dismissed
Stories appearing in today's tabloids, claiming that Bridges is facing a long spell on the sidelines, following minor knee surgery, have been dismissed by the club.
Although Michael hasn't travelled to Sweden with the rest of the lads, DOL is expecting him to return to first team action by early September at the latest.
Tuesday July 24th 2001
Reserves fixtures delayed but...
Although Leeds have postponed the announcement of reserve-team fixtures until Friday, it has been announced that our first home reserve game will be against Liverpool on Tuesday August 28th.
Tuesday July 24th 2001
Aussie deal latest
Officials from Brisbane Strikers will visit Leeds next week as they try to persuade United to set up in partnership with them.
Leeds have been involved in talks with a number of clubs but a shake-up of Australian football prompted the club to put their plans on hold.
Brisbane chairman Clem Jones is due to meet Leeds counterpart Peter Ridsdale, who will shortly decide which club to link up with.
Monday July 23rd 2001
Ridsdale confirms 'substantial' bid
Peter Ridsdale has revealed that Leeds have had a 'substantial' bid for a mystery player turned down and rejected two offers for Michael Bridges.
Leeds have been strongly linked with moves for Newcastle midfielder Kieron Dyer and Real Madrid winger Steve McManaman, although The Whites' chairman has denied any interest in both players, while Bridges has been linked with a move to Newcastle as part of a deal that would see Dyer move to Elland Road.
But Ridsdale has confirmed that he is targeting two players and has made a bid for one, but has been told by the player's club that he is unavailable at the moment.
"There are just two players on the list that David O'Leary has targeted and we have already made a bid for one of those players," Peter Ridsdale told Leeds' official website.
"We've been told that the player is not available, so we will have to be patient just as we were with Rio Ferdinand.
"We do not divulge which players we are in the market for because those players are contracted to other clubs. It is not public domain and it has to be done club to club.
"All I can tell supporters is that we have made a substantial bid, but I have not commented on the speculation this summer and I will continue not to comment.
"David and I think that we are just one or two players from the squad we want and I would remind fans that when you are dealing at the level we are now, you have to be patient."
Of the rumours linking England Under-21 striker Bridges with a move away from Elland Road, Ridsdale added: "Michael Bridges is contracted to Leeds United and we've never suggested anything other than he has a role to play here," added the Leeds Chairman.
"He scored 22 goals for us in his first season and then last season he was injured for most of the time.
"He's a quality player and the fact that we've turned down two bids for him this summer demonstrates our determination to keep him here.
"As far as the speculation, I can't stop that, but that's all it is, speculation.
"We have said this summer that none of our players are for sale and we've demonstrated our determination to keep them and hopefully keep them happy."
Monday July 23rd 2001
Intriguing Viduka comments
Is Peter Ridsdale right to feel happy with Mark Viduka's latest comments that he never wanted to leave us and has high hopes for the forthcoming season, at Elland Road?
Vidooks is reported to have commented: "There's a tremendous set up with the chairman, the manager and the coaches.
"We're all thinking big at Leeds and some of those big clubs in Europe don't think that big, their outlook is short-term rather than long-term - that is why Leeds are so attractive to me.
"We can become one of the truly big clubs in Europe.
"We showed that last season, not just by reaching the Champions League semi-finals but by the way we got there."
Speaking to the Daily Mail, he reveals that he never came remotely close to leaving Leeds over the summer. Hoorah, we all say!
The trouble is that, following earlier revelations, when PR announced he had received no firm bids for the player - and initial uncertainties spread by both the player and his coach, some cynics might suggest that mark had played something of a flanker, in order to gain himself a nice little wage increase - with PR rushing out to Croatia in order to offer him an extra £5,000 a week.
Monday July 23rd 2001
More silly transfer talk
We have been linked with PAOK midfielder Pantelis Kafes, according to reports in Greece: another story in a long list of ever increasingly unlikely transfer links.
Is it just a coincidence that the 23-year-old's agent, who is currently in contract negotiations with PAOK, has informed the Greek club that his client is being targeted by Leeds?
Monday July 23rd 2001
Ground move latest
Peter Ridsdale has confirmed the club will be writing to supporters within the next week to 10 days outlining the club's various stadium options.
Ridsdale maintains that a possible move from Elland Road is not a done deal but they have got a list of possible sites as options.
The club have considered various locations around the city but the A1-M1 link road appears to out in front, though fans have expressed their concerns about the accessibility of the area if it is chosen as the new ground site.
Sunday July 22nd 2001
Schmeichel tips Leeds
Aston Villa's new keeper Peter Schmeichel thinks we will offer the biggest challenge to Manchester United in the forthcoming season.
Speaking on BBC Radio 5 Live, he said: "Teams like Liverpool, Leeds and Arsenal are going to push United hard this season.
"But I feel Leeds will offer the biggest threat. They have got a good manager and a good assistant in Brian Kidd, who I worked with for more than seven years at United and I know what he can do."
However, unsurprisingly, he still backs the Mancs to win their fourth consecutive Premiership title:
"I still think [Manchester] United will win the championship, but I don't think it will be as easy as last season.
Sunday July 22nd 2001
Leeds help the Mags
Awww...aren't we a nice bunch! Not satisfied with giving the Mags six points on a plate last season, we have now given them a helping hand in the form of video tapes of their next Intertoto Cup opponents, 1860 Munich.
I guess it's only what we'd expect them to do for us, in the same circumstances...but I still don't want them to go through.
After their extremely comfortable win against Sporting Lokeren last night, Bobby Robson commented on Munich: "It's a Bundesliga team, they're strong and they're well-organised. Leeds United have helped us by sending us some tapes because they played them last year."
Saturday July 21st 2001
Rio sends "join us" message to Vieira
Put your hands up if you'd like Patrick Vieira to join us in the next couple of weeks? Oh, go on then...but he'd only be a squad player ;-) Seriously though, it appears Rio doesn't fancy being the most expensive player at the club anymore and so has sent a message to Vieira telling him to join us.
"I'll tell you what would be a good move for Patrick – Leeds," said Ferdinand.
"We're certainly ambitious enough to try and sign him should he make it clear that he wants to leave The Gunners, and he would be a great addition to the squad here.
"We've already got some great midfielders at Leeds with the likes of Lee Bowyer, Olivier Dacourt, David Batty and Harry Kewell, but having someone like Patrick join the team would be fantastic for the club."
I wonder whether he bothered to mention it to DOL and Risdale, in particular, so he can get his small change ready :-)
Saturday July 21st 2001
Dyer talk continues
Never guess what? We've been linked with Kieron Dyer again today ;-) It's getting as monotonous as last season's rumblings over Rio. Wonder whther it'll end up with the same result?
We have reportedly had an £18million bid for the player rejected, despite the fact that PR has stated: "We have enquired about one player, but that player was not Kieron Dyer" and DOL allegedly believes he is now too expensive. Too right, Guv! If £6 million was too steep two years ago, then £20 million is inflation gone crazy!
Friday July 20th 2001
Matteo injury boost
Leeds have been boosted by the news that defender Dominic Matteo does not require surgery on a knee problem.
The Scotland international picked up the injury in the last game of the season against Leicester at Elland Road, and it had been feared that he may need an operation to rectify the problem.
A few weeks of rest followed by some extra training sessions seems to have cured the trouble however, and the 27-year-old has been given the all-clear by a knee specialist and club physios. He will now travel with the rest of the squad on the pre-season tour of Sweden.
"I knew it was the final game of the campaign and decided to play on because I would have plenty of time to recover during the summer," said the former Liverpool man.
"I had just felt a twinge in the first half and then in the days after the game it caused me some concern. The summer was spent relaxing and coming into the club for extra training so that I would be ready for the new season. Everything felt fine for the start of pre-season.
"It is vital that you take part in pre-season because if you miss it then you can be left behind through your fitness later in the season."
It is welcome news for David O'Leary, whose pre-season preparations last campaign were ruined by a number of injuries to key members of the squad.
Friday July 20th 2001
Wilcox ready to fight for Leeds place
Jason Wilcox has reiterated his intention to stay at Leeds and fight for his first-team place despite claims he wanted to leave Elland Road.
The Whites are determined to keep their squad together and Wilcox had been tipped to quit the club after a miserable season in West Yorkshire last time around.
Injuries and a loss of form restricted the former Blackburn winger to just six appearances all season for Leeds and Manchester City boss Kevin Keegan - who recalled Wilcox to the England squad during his tenure as national team coach - is a known admirer of the player. Keegan has been chasing Wilcox ever since succeeding Joe Royle in the Maine Road hot-seat and stepped up his interest in him after sanctioning Mark Kennedy's £2million sale to Wolves earlier this month.
But Wilcox has appeared to rule out any move away from Elland Road, and said: "It was not an easy season for me all round and I didn't play too many games.
"The injuries carried over from last season and in the end it was four months before I was fit.
"That made it tough for me to get in the team and when a player is out of the side it's inevitable that transfer rumours start.
"That's part of football these days, but I love it at Leeds and I'm happy to stay and fight for my place," he told the club's official website.
Friday July 20th 2001
Liverpool step up Emerton interest
Liverpool boss Gerard Houllier is ready to step up his interest in Brett Emerton in an attempt to beat off competition from Leeds and Blackburn.
Houllier is keen to add the Australian midfielder to his ranks before the start of the season but faces tough competition from David O'Leary and Graeme Souness in his pursuit of the Feyenoord star.
Middlesbrough are also keen on the player, along with a host of top continental clubs, but the Teessiders' interest has cooled somewhat since former Australia coach Terry Venables left The Riverside.
Emerton is rumoured to be due on Merseyside for talks any day now and Feyenoord could be ready to do business at the right price.
Rovers boss Souness has already had a bid of £5million rejected for the Socceroos star but it is thought that an offer of around the £8million mark would be enough to tempt the Dutch giants to part with one of their most prized assets.
Friday July 20th 2001
O'Leary's international headache
Leeds face the prospect of being without as many as 13 players in the week leading up to the first match of the season.
There is a full round of international friendlies on August 15, which means that prior to Leeds' opening game of the season - at home to Southampton - most of the squad will be away on international duty.
David O'Leary is unlikely to be the only manager who will voice his frustration, but with England playing Germany on September 1, Sven Goran Eriksson will want to get his party together.
England play Holland at White Harte Lane and Nigel Martyn, Danny Mills, Alan Smith and Rio Ferdinand are likely to be called up.
The Republic of Ireland play Croatia in Dublin which could see Gary Kelly, Ian Harte, Robbie Keane and Stephen McPhail all involved.
Lucas Radebe should feature in South Africa's game against Sweden, Eirik Bakke is likely to be involved in Norway's clash with Turkey, and Olivier Dacourt may play for France against Denmark.
Australia will take on Japan but it is unlikely both Harry Kewell and Mark Viduka will be picked.
Friday July 20th 2001
O'Leary backs ground move proposal
David O'Leary has given his backing to Leeds' proposed move away from Elland Road as he feels it would make the club "bigger and better".
Peter Ridsdale said earlier in the week that the club was close to announcing a site for a proposed new super stadium and O'Leary has now spoken out in support of the idea.
O'Leary said: "If we can move and build a brand new modern stadium it will only make Leeds bigger and better.
"For the supporters it would provide quality facilities to watch what I hope will be a quality team, if you look at our ground it is old.
"I understand the traditions around Elland Road but it is all about moving forward.
"I believe if we could provide a great stadium with first class facilities it would provide a perfect stage for our brilliant supporters to come and cheer us on," he told the clubs website.
Fans were promised a say on the issue but the longer it goes on the more people get the feeling that the deal is inevitable.
Friday July 20th 2001
Leeds ranked fifth in UEFA Cup
Leeds are seeded and ranked fifth in this year's UEFA Cup based on their, and other English teams' records in Europe over the past five years.
UEFA mark sides and give what they call a co-efficient mark.
Valencia top the list with a co-efficient of 100.605, Inter Milan are second with 89.119, Chelsea are third with 76.644, Celta Vigo fourth with 70.605 and then Leeds with 66.644.
Ipswich are ranked 15 and will be seeded, their mark being 25.644.
The draw for the final UEFA Cup qualifying round has been made with Rapid Vienna, AEK Athens, Standard Liege, and Bruges all involved.
Meanwhile, the reserve fixtures have been delayed by a week, and there are so many changes to be made to the fixture list that they will not now be out until next Friday.
No news on the youth fixtures or on squad numbers yet but the team photo will take place on August 2.
Thursday July 19th 2001
Wilcox bid rjected
According to reports today, we have rejected a £2million bid from Manchester City for Jason Wilcox - and rightly so! Why is it that clubs like City and Bradford regard us as the football equivalent of a bargain basement store?
Although Wilcox had a disappointing time of things last season, this was mainly due to injury problems. When he returned in the last home game to play a cameo role, he looked leaner and sharper than I've seen him since his time with us - and certinly would be worth the £3 million we paid to Blackburn for him, in December 1999.
Of course, Kevin Keegan - now Man City manager - was England boss when Wilcox was recalled to the England squad and is a known admirer of the player.
Thursday July 19th 2001
Dyer clue in Sinclair bid?
Newcastle have today been linked with a £6 million bid for West Ham's Trevor Sinclair , which was promptly turned down by the Londoners, who stated the player was not for sale at any price. Ha! Ha!
However, the story might be a clue as to the true future of Kieron Dyer. Are the Mags simply strengthening their squad or is Sinclair intended as a firtst team player? If so, it prompts the question as to why exactly they would want two right sided midfielders. Is Dyer already mapped for a journey away from St James Park?
Thursday July 19th 2001
New ground site deal close
Its looking more and more likely that we'll be moving away from Elland Road and into a new stadium - with today's announcement that the club are close to announcing a deal on a site for the proposed new ground.
Risdale says, "We are very close, I have meetings with interested parties in terms of land owners over the next few days and we should be ready with an announcement in the next few days."
"Obviously we can't write to fans explaining the situation and options until we have a definite site but we will be writing to them sometime between now and the start of the season outlining the options.
Quite what say we, as supporters, will have in whether we stay or go is anyone's guess. However, whilst the feedback on the LEEDS UNITED WORLD Message Board has been decidedly mixed, Risdale claims that the vast majority of supporters have expressed a desire to leave. With this in mind, it seems to most of us that the club have already made up their mind - and we will be leaving.
What do the rest of you reckon? Have your say here.
Wednesday July 18th 2001
O'Leary can leave - Ridsdale
Leeds chairman Peter Ridsdale has given boss David O'Leary the green light to leave Elland Road for Manchester United, if the Irishman wants to.
O'Leary has been widely tipped to become Sir Alex Ferguson's successor at Old Trafford when the Scot steps down as Reds manager at the end of next season.
Ridsdale rates the former Republic of Ireland defender as "the best young manager in the country" and has said he will never sack him, but has also admitted that he would not stand in O'Leary's way if he wanted to leave.
"The only reason David won't be manager of Leeds will be if he walks out - because he and I are in this together, and I've told him that," said Ridsdale.
"He's the best young manager in the country and we're totally committed."
Ridsdale believes that a move to Manchester United would be a bad career decision for O'Leary because he would simply be inheriting the fruits of Ferguson's labours rather than building a successful team of his own as he is doing at Leeds.
"David has got more freedom to act here than probably any other league manager, but if he feels that moving to a club that has won just about everything for the last seven years is something he wants to do, then so be it," added Ridsdale.
"That might be seen as a way to be remembered as a great manager, but if he wins trophies at this club I know that he'll go down in history - anybody who goes to Old Trafford will just be following in the master's footsteps.
"All I can do is create the best environment in which David can operate, and I believe we have. We've got a very good professional relationship. I don't think we disagree on our strategy or direction," he told the Daily Mail.
Wednesday July 18th 2001
Risdale's comment: Your views?
What do you all make of Risdale's comments that he wouldn't stand in DOL's way if his manager wanted to join Man Ure? Was he taken out of context by the Daily Mail or was this the true message he wished to convey to the supporters? If so, it's a slightly odd one - and not exactly reassuring. Similarly, DOL hasn't been quick in dismissing the possibility of a move - or am I asking too much in today's Football climate?
What do you reckon? Click here.
Wednesday July 18th 2001
Gala face expulsion
UEFA officials have expressed their concern at the lack of improvement to facilities at Galatasaray's notorious Ali Sami Yen Stadium.
On a previous visit to the ground, European football's governing body threatened that they would not allow European matches to take place there if necessary amendments were not made in the near future.
Upon their return on Monday, it became clear that no work had been carried out to improve the condition of the stadium. Officials were especially concerned at the state of the toilets, the width of the aisles towards the exits and even the executive boxes that are set aside for UEFA delegates and visiting dignitaries.
Galatasaray have now been told that these must be brought up to scratch otherwise their Champions League second qualifying round clash with either KR Reykjavik or KS Vllaznia on July 25 will have to be played at a neutral venue.
Galatasaray officials argue the club were too busy presiding over recent club elections to bother with the upgrade of stadium facilities but stress the work will be completed on time.
Meanwhile, the 2000 UEFA Cup winners are also dealing with an apparent threat of expulsion from the Champions League in light of the non-payment of Arif Erdem's transfer fee.
Erdem joined Gala from Real Sociedad at the turn of the year, after the striker failed to settle in Spain.
However, Sociedad have still yet to receive payment for Arif and have now made a complaint to FIFA with the world governing body apparently giving the Turkish club a deadline of July 23 to pay the debt.
Wednesday July 18th 2001
Irony of ironies
After all the misdemeanours committed by supporters of Galatasaray over recent seasons, it appears that UEFA are getting tough with them at last - threatening that they may have to play their Champions League qualifying match at a neutral venue...
But...irony of ironies, what are they being punished for? The answer: "Officials were especially concerned at the state of the toilets, the width of the aisles towards the exits and even the executive boxes that are set aside for UEFA delegates and visiting dignitaries"
The latter really says everything about modern football, doesn't it? I'm surprised they're not been threatened for not having their pre-match prawn sandwiches up to scratch or their half time champagne not chilled to the correct temperature. The fact that they continue to threaten and intimidate (and worse) visiting supporters is obviously a minor issue as far as UEFA are concerned.
Wednesday July 18th 2001
Juventus late bid for Viduka?
Reports linking major European clubs with a move for Mark Viduka continue - despite the fact that the big man has signed an improved deal to stay at Elland Road.
I hate to be cynical - but is this an attenmpt by the Board to pacify supporters for the lack of spending over the close season? Like...aren't we delirious that all or big names have signed new contracts: who cares about new signings? Perhaps not - but there doesn't seem to be too much concrete evidence that European clubs have been crawling over each other to sign Vidooks, other than newspaper rumours.
For the record, the latest rumours suggest Juventus will make a late bid to sign ther player but Ridsdale has said he will not sell at any price.
Juve are apparently ready to offer Yugoslav international striker Darko Kovacevic plus £11million for Vidouka but, like Milan last week, they will be told firmly where to go!
Wednesday July 18th 2001
No op for Matteo
According to the official Leeds site, Dominic Matteo's summer fitness routine has worked wonders.
It was feared that a damaged knee, sustained in the last game of the season against Leicester at Elland Road, might spoil his pre-season build up and even result in him facing an operation.
However, these fears now seem to be allayed, with the player being quoted as saying: "I have been coming in to the training ground on certain days throughout the season, in between my holidays, to make sure that I am right for the start of the new season. I needed to do some strengthening work on the joint and it seems to have worked wonders."
Tuesday July 17th 2001
Geordies lay down the law
The Mags are playing some serious mind games with us - and I just hope that DOL and Risdale are strong enough to get taken in by their bluff and counter bluffs.
Of course, they're telling us the player is most definitely not for sale - but at the same time appear to be licking their lips at the prospect of earning a £20 million+ payout on a troublesome player who only cost them £6 million two years ago...Oh why didn't we stick our necks out then and pay that little bit extra?
The Mag's chairman Freddy Shepherd says Newcastle can match the ambitions of Dyer. However, even his own supporters won't swallow that one, with season ticket sales slumping badly from prevous seasons.
Dyer seems to be talking up a move, with Man U also allegedly in the hunt for his signature. I just hope we don't end up in a silly bidding war for a player who IMO is not worth ovcer £20 million!
Tuesday July 17th 2001
Season ticket increase
Leeds have announced that more than 26,000 season tickets have been sold for the 2001-2 season: 3,000 up on last year. Apart from the promoted clubs of Fulham, Bolton and Blackburn that gives Leeds the biggest increase on tickets from last year.
It all adds to the sense of expectation at the club, with supporters and players alike believing this might very well be our chance to win the Premiership...or certainly give Man U a much needed run for their money.
Monday July 16th 2001
Dyer told to stay put
Kieron Dyer has been told by boss Bobby Robson that he has an allegiance to Newcastle amid more rumours of an approach from Leeds.
Leeds have again been linked with a move for Dyer with reports suggesting the Elland Road club have lodged a £15million bid. But Robson, speaking before United's Intertoto Cup tie in Belgium, was adamant Dyer should honour his contract at St James' Park.
Robson told the Sunday Times: "I have spoken to Kieron and told him 'We have looked after you and paid your salary for six months even though you didn't play any games for us so you have to get it into your head that you have an allegiance to this club'."
Peter Ridsdale reacted with frustration the last time Leeds were linked to the player, saying apart from when he was sold to Newcastle for £6million a couple of years ago Leeds had shown no interest in the player.
Newcastle have maintained all along that the only firm offer for Dyer has come from Manchester United, but their £15million offer was rejected by the Magpies board.
Monday July 16th 2001
Odds out
Next season's odds are available and Leeds are fourth favourites for the Premiership title with bookmakers Ladbrokes at 11/2.
Manchester United are again odds on winners at 4/5.
Arsenal are second favourites at 9/2 and Liverpool are third at 5/1, while Chelsea are behind Leeds at 10/1.
At the other end of the scale Leicester, Derby and Bolton are all priced at 1,000/1.
Elsewhere Mark Viduka is 9/1 to be the season's top scorer and Alan Smith is down at 25/1.
Leeds are among the favourites for the UEFA Cup and are also ranked highly for the Worthington Cup and the FA Cup.
Monday July 16th 2001
Liverani linked
Just who is the "mystery man" or "mystery men" we are supposed to be hoping to bring to Elland Road?
The latest possibility, according to the weekend papers, is Italian international midfielder Fabio Liverani, who plays for Perugia.
He fits the bill in terms of age (He is only 25). However, quite whether he would break our transfer record is another matter. Valued at a mere £10 million+ and being chased by Juve, amongst others, this looks distinctly like one of those dodgy tabloid fabrications.
Sunday July 15th 2001
Dyer again...
Kieron Dyer's name continues to be linked to us on an almost daily basis, much as Rio's was this time twelve months ago. No doubt this will be fuelled further following recent news that the player has asked asked for talks with The Magpies, concerned at the club's apparent lack of ambition.
"Kieron has become more and more frustrated with what is happening at Newcastle," a friend of the player is quoted as saying, in today's 'News of the World'.
Quite whether this is true or whether we are even interested in the player, is another matter. However, despite Risdale's protestations to the contrary, the fact that he now claims our next move will smash the existing transfer record makes Dyer the most likely possibity in most supporters' eyes.
Is he worth £20 million+? Have your say right now here.
Sunday July 15th 2001
Kerr move likely
With talk of transfer records being smashed, reports that we appear likely to move in for Falkirk's highly-rated midfielder Mark Kerr seem rather more realistic and likely. The player's name has constantly been linked with a move to Elland Road over recent months and he did come to the club for a trial during the last campaign. after he rejected the Scottish club's contract offer.
Now, though, the player - who won the Bells First Division Young Player of the Year Award last season - has fuelled speculation by rejecting the Scottish club's latest contract offer.
Saturday July 14th 2001
Was Viduka almost poached?
Today's newspapers are full of a story suggesting that Inter Milan failed in a last ditch attempt to lure Mark Viduka away from Elland Road.
Supposedly, the club contacted Peter Risdale yesterday morning, asking the Leeds chairman to name his asking price for Viduka, only to be told that he had only just signed a new, lucrative, five-year contract.
The news is yet another boost for our Premiership hopes next season, with Risdale now tying all our major stars to long term contracts before a ball is even kicked in anger :-)
Saturday July 14th 2001
Rio wants new blood
Rio Ferdinand believes David O'Leary should add a couple of new signings to his squad this summer in order to boost Leeds' title challenge.
While Manchester United, Arsenal and Chelsea have spent vast amounts of money strengthening their squads in the close-season, Leeds are yet to make a summer signing - with the exception of Robbie Keane, who made his switch from Inter Milan permanent.
Ferdinand believes that while Leeds should not compare their spending to that of their rivals, he does think that some new blood would be good for the forthcoming season.
Ferdinand said: "I believe this current Leeds United squad is good enough to win the Premiership and I stick by that statement. However, I do feel that we could maybe do with a couple of new faces being brought into the set-up.
"Arsenal have been the big spenders this summer but I don't think we should compare ourselves with them. I don't think they bought any player during last season where as we did so things probably balance themselves out anyway."
Ferdinand also believes that Leeds have made three significant signings in the close-season - by tying Ian Harte, Oliver Dacourt and Mark Viduka to long-term contracts.
"It's great to see Oliver Dacourt, Ian Harte and Mark Viduka agree to stay for longer and it gives me real confidence too," Ferdinand told bigfanof.
"I have four years to run on my contract and it's nice to know that a lot of the players that were here when I joined last season will still be here in 2005."
Friday July 13th 2001
COUNTY COMPLETE HACKWORTH SWOOP
by Chris Bargh
UNITED'S Tony Hackworth has completed his £120,000 switch to Nationwide Division Two side Notts County.
The young 21 year old striker has joined the Magpies on a four-year deal, and is added to the summer acquisitions of Darren Caskey, Steve Mildenhall, Ian Baraclough, Marcel Cas, Niall McNamara and Stuart Garden.
Notts County Deputy Chairman Peter Storrie said: "Tony is an exciting young forward who has experience in the Premiership and the Champions League.
"It took us a while to persuade Tony to make the switch, but it's a great signing for the club and with Mark Stallard and Danny Allsopp already on board, our front line looks very strong and exciting."
Hackworth appeared against Barcelona and Lazio in Leeds' tremendous Champions League run last season, making his debut in the Nou Camp.
The 6' 2" striker said of his arrival: "I came down about a month ago to meet Jocky and Peter, and had a look around the club.
"The club had been chasing me for a long time and once I had time to think things through and sort things out in Leeds, I knew Notts County was the place I wanted to play football."
Friday July 13th 2001
BIG IN JAPAN RIO TIPS LEEDS
by Chris Bargh
RIO FERDINAND'S recent trip to Japan has whet his appetite for the season ahead for both Leeds and England, with the £18million defender having set his sights on major honours for club and country.
Rio got a taste of the World Cup 2002 atmosphere when he attended the recent Confederation Cup Final between Japan and France and also took a look at some of the new stadia built specially for the finals.
Along with Leeds team-mate Alan Smith, who accompanied Rio on the promotional trip, the two United stars were mightily impressed and both have high hopes of returning next summer with England to play in the world's biggest tournament.
Rio told www.lufc.com: "We were over their on a self promotional trip and it was a great experience.
"Some of the stadiums we saw were unbelievable. It's amazing that they can knock them up in a year or so and they way they've done that maybe we should take note.
"With Leeds also looking at possibly building a new stadium it was also topical, although we only heard about that when we were over there.
"As players we haven't really talked about it yet. All we want to do is play football and we love Elland Road, but if for revenue or fan base reasons the Club decide to move then we understand that."
Now back in his first pre-season schedule with United, Rio is confident of success this season and that the squad assembled at Leeds will prove to be good enough, even though there are no new arrivals as yet.
"The squad we have is definitely going to be stronger than last season," added Rio. "With players like Stephen McPhail, Bridgey and Michael Duberry back, it will be like having three new signings.
"I think it is strong enough to win the league and I'm sure the boss will be still looking around to bring one or two players in to freshen things up when he can
"Manchester United are the benchmark but we have a definite chance of pushing them and the other contenders for the title this season.
"That has to be our main priority and it is the one the fans want to win. I'm really looking forward to the new campaign. It is my first full season here and I think with everyone fit we can be major contenders in all the competitions.
"As far as Europe is concerned it is the UEFA Cup not the Champions League which we were slightly disappointed about, but we are not an unknown quantity in Europe anymore so that will be tough too."
Thursday July 12th 2001
Viduka confirms departure
Mark Viduka has confirmed what we already knew - that both he and Harry Kewell will be playing for Australia in the World Cup play-off matches.
The games are so big for Australia that it would have been a major surprise had they pulled out - almost tantamount to resignation from international football.
Viduka is obviously keen to play, saying: "We always seem to get tough opponents in these games."
It looks as though their opponents this time will be one of three teams, Uruguay, Columbia or Brazil.
Viduka continued: "The home game will be played in my home city of Melbourne where the crowd is unbelievable and hopefully they can help us beat whoever we play.
"We will be available, these are two games that can get us to the World Cup and they are very very important.
"I know Frank Farina (Australia's head coach) would want us to play in both these games."
The worry for Leeds is that both Viduka and Kewell will be away for the best part of six weeks while they play their warm-up games and then the two matches themselves.
On the subject of next season, Viduka believes that Leeds have a great chance of making a real challenge for the title.
He continued: "We had a great season last year and if it wasn't for so many injuries early on it would have been even better.
"We have shown we can compete with the best both here and in Europe and hopefully this year we can go one step further and get some silverware.
"We are definitely capable of challenging and we showed that in the second half of last season when we played some of the best football in the Premiership.
"I have had a good summer and a good rest and I am now raring to go."
Meanwhile, legend Norman Hunter is expecting great things from Harry Kewell in the coming season.
Hunter said: "This season Harry should be a major threat, David O'Leary kept saying he was not ready and you could see at certain times that he couldn't go past people unlike the previous season.
"He gradually got better towards the end of the season but any professional will tell you how vital pre-season is, there is nothing worse than missing out on that and Harry suffered last season."
Thursday July 12th 2001
Robbo stakes his claim
Paul Robinson is ready to stake his claim as Leeds' and England's number one keeper and oust both Nigel Martyn and David Seaman from their posts.
Robinson, who is ahead of schedule following an operation on his finger in the close season, is now in David O'Leary's eyes the joint number one at Elland Road.
He came in for the injured Nigel Martyn last season and was outstanding week in, week out but never more so than when he had Rivaldo almost pulling his hair out with frustration after pulling off a string of excellent saves against Barcelona in the Champions League.
Those sort of performances brought him England recognition and despite the fact he finished the season on the bench again he is determined to show everyone concerned that he is the top keeper in the country.
He said: "I have to stake a claim for the number one jersey this season, that is what I am aiming for."
There is a mutual bond between him and Nigel Martyn but Robinson knows he has to oust the big Cornishman from between the sticks and that is not going to be easy.
He said: "I get on really well with Nigel and we train together but this is a massive season for me."
Martyn is almost certainly going to get the nod to start the first match against Southampton on August 18 but he knows that he has to be error free in every game because Robinson is waiting in the wings and ready to pounce.
Thursday July 12th 2001
Ferdinand eyeing title tilt
Rio Ferdinand is unconcerned about the lack of new signings at Elland Road and believes the current Leeds squad is good enough to win the league.
Some fans believe that Leeds have been somewhat left behind in the scramble for new signings this summer, with Arsenal, Manchester United and Chelsea all spending big.
Leeds have instead preferred to concentrate on securing the long-term futures of several star players. Olivier Dacourt, Mark Viduka and Ian Harte, amongst others, have all signed new, improved contracts at Elland Road.
But Ferdinand believes that even without any new faces The Whites can challenge for honours next season.
"The squad we have is definitely going to be stronger than last season," Ferdinand said.
"With players like Stephen McPhail, Bridgey (Michael Bridges) and Michael Duberry back, it will be like having three new signings.
"I think it is strong enough to win the league and I'm sure the boss will be still looking around to bring one or two players in to freshen things up when he can.
"Manchester United are the benchmark but we have a definite chance of pushing them and the other contenders for the title this season.
"That has to be our main priority and it is the one the fans want to win. I'm really looking forward to the new campaign. It is my first full season here and I think with everyone fit we can be major contenders in all the competitions.
"As far as Europe is concerned it is the UEFA Cup not the Champions League which we were slightly disappointed about, but we are not an unknown quantity in Europe anymore so that will be tough too," Ferdinand told Leeds' official website.
Meanwhile, as expected, reserve team striker Tony Hackworth completed his £120,000 switch to Notts County on Thursday and has signed a four-year deal.
The chances of Hackworth breaking through into the first-team squad at Leeds were remote and were unlikely to get any better, so it was no surprise to see the 21-year-old move on.
Thursday July 12th 2001
Global bid for power
Leeds' bid for world domination continues as they now have supporters clubs throughout the world and could branch out into motor racing.
The supporters club have recently received, and accepted, applications to open branches in Hong Kong, Singapore, Adelaide, Perth and Israel.
To get a franchise to open an official supporters club you have to fulfil certain criteria and one of those is to have at least 40 members.
There are also applications in from Southport and Northampton which have yet to be approved, and the number of branches are now at a record high and are fast approaching 100.
Elsewhere, Leeds are said to be one of 25 European clubs ready to put their name to a new Premier Grand Prix motor racing series.
The 10 race series will start next year if all goes to plan and it will involve a 24 car grid of identical cars that are in club colours.
The clubs don't appear to have to invest in the idea but will get around £700,000 in TV revenue for taking part, sounds like money for old rope.
Wednesday July 11th 2001
Duo miss start of pre-season
Michael Duberry and Michael Bridges are both still receiving treatment for injuries and have not yet started pre-season training.
Leeds are hopeful and expect both players to be fit for the start of the season but while they are not training there is obviously a worry.
It was reported that Bridges had suffered a set-back to the ankle injury he sustained against Besiktas last October that would keep him out until Christmas. But the club denied this and are still confident he will be ready for the kick-off.
Duberry has been out since rupturing his Achilles tendon in the 1-1 draw at Derby on September 23.
Both injuries were freakish in the fact that there didn't appear to be anyone else involved in either incident.
Meanwhile, Stephen McPhail joined in light training and can expect to step up to a full regime by the end of the week after recovering from his Achilles injury.
Paul Robinson, who had an operation at the end of last season on a damaged finger, had the splint removed yesterday and can return to training ahead of schedule from next Monday. Robinson has been keeping fit over the summer and it's just a case of catching up on his goal-keeping work.
Pre-season training has changed somewhat from previous years with the emphasis on ball work as well as fitness training.
Last season the strenuous physical efforts in the first week or so of pre-season may not have helped when it came to injuries, so this season Brian Kidd appears to be mixing it up more and introducing the hard, physical aspect of training gradually.
Wednesday July 11th 2001
Viduka ready for the off
Mark Viduka says he will be ready and raring to go from the start this season after injury plagued the beginning to last season's campaign.
Injuries and the Olympics last time around meant that Leeds didn't see anywhere near the best of the Aussie hitman until October.
"Not having a proper pre-season training hampered me a lot last time, plus I feel a lot more settled at the club now," Viduka said.
"Hopefully I can start off well on day one and concentrate on my football and scoring goals."
Viduka shares the optimism of many at the club when he says he believes the club can win the Premiership this season if they make a good enough start.
David Batty believes that the fact they are not involved in the Champions League will help the push for the Premiership crown a decade since they last one the game's major prize. He also believes that not spending the transfer cash in the summer makes no difference at all.
"A lot of clubs have made huge signings this summer and we are not one of them," Batty said.
"That doesn't bother me in the slightest.
"We have the nucleus of a very good squad here and with no Champions League games, can make a real challenge for the title."
Meanwhile, Australian-Croat Viduka was in a no lose situation when it came to the Men's Singles Final at Wimbledon.
Viduka revealed that he was 'split' over his allegiance in the final but was rooting for Ivanisevic, saying: "I thought Goran deserved it because he's been in three finals and missed out."
Meanwhile Ivanisevic has signed a deal to play football for Hajduk Split.
Wednesday July 11th 2001
Duberry raring to go
Michael Duberry has again reiterated his pledge to stay and fight for his first-team place at Elland Road and insists he will not quit Leeds.
The centre back seems determined to put his nightmare 12 months behind him and reclaim a first-team place at the club after fighting his way back to fitness from an Achilles tendon injury.
Duberry picked up the injury in September's 1-1 draw with Derby at Pride Park and then saw his comeback bid interrupted by the much publicised trial which affected everyone at the club.
Duberry is determined to get his name and face on to the back pages rather than the front pages of the papers, though to do that he must break into a backline that looked extremely secure towards the end of the last campaign.
He said: "I can play a major part in this side and now I have the chance to prove that.
"It is up to me to show the manager that he does have other options and that I am capable of playing a part in the first team."
Duberry faces the unenviable task of trying to split the current centre-half partnership of Rio Ferdinand and Dominic Matteo, who were exceptional during the latter part of last season. He will also compete with club skipper Lucas Radebe - who is champing at the bit to return after a knee injury brought about a premature end to his season last time out - as well as the return of Jonathon Woodgate.
An in-form Woodgate is one of the top centre-backs in the country but with the re-trial looming it remains to be seen what mental state he may be in.
With all these obstacles in front of him and the well publicised off-field problems he has faced, many had tipped Duberry for a move away from Elland Road. However, the former Chelsea defender says he will give it a full year's effort to try and make his mark in the first team at Leeds.
He concluded: "I need a full season under my belt and then if I am still not good enough I will hold my hands up, accept that I can no longer cut it and ask for a move."
Wednesday July 11th 2001
Brisbane officials set for talks
Officials from Brisbane Strikers are on their way over to Leeds to discuss the proposed link-up between the two clubs.
Leeds face a problem in the fact that a lot of the clubs in Australia are based on ethnic communities and if Leeds were to align themselves with one they could upset the rest. This could be a factor in Leeds' ultimate decision and they may prefer to run their own soccer schools in all the communities rather than sign up with one particular club.
Tuesday July 10th 2001
Fans favour ground switch - Ridsdale
Peter Ridsdale believes the Leeds faithful are overwhelmingly in favour of a move away from Elland Road to a brand new purpose-built stadium.
The United chairman was present at the Supporters' Club AGM at Elland Road on Sunday where he claimed that, according to comments he has received in his mailbag, fans are nine to one in favour of a move.
A feasibility study is already underway whereby both an upgrading of Elland Road and the building of a new stadium are being considered.
However, many observers believe the club is already close to agreeing the purchase of a new site, with land close to the A1-M1 link a likely venue.
Such a site would seem practical bearing in mind the club's training facilities being at Thorp Arch near Wetherby. A number of the United squad also live in the Wetherby area.
Speaking about the possible ground move, Ridsdale said: "There were a whole range of matters discussed with a possible ground move being just one of those. I got the impression that there was an almost overwhelming belief in the move.
"It is very important to me that the fans have an opportunity to take their points on anything to do with the club straight to the chairman. The fans are the lifeblood of the club."
Ridsdale is in favour of the move and has maintained throughout that a majority of fans wanted the move but that is not the case according to other reports and Ray Fell, chairman of the supporters club, said originally that his members were overwhelmingly against the idea.
A vote is to be taken and we await to see the result of such a vote.
Tuesday July 10th 2001
Robinson raring to go
Paul Robinson hopes to be match fit for the start of next season after being given the green light to resume full training.
The England Under-21 goalkeeper saw a specialist today and was given clearance to join his Elland Road team-mates in preparation for the big kick-off on August 18.
Robinson underwent surgery on a finger at the end of last term and has finally had the cast removed.
He is now hoping to challenge England international Nigel Martyn for the number one goalkeeper's jersey at Elland Road.
"The cast's been removed so as of next week I'm back in full training which is great news," Robinson told the club's official website.
"The operation I had on my hand means that I'm going to be slightly behind schedule in terms of ball-handling drills but I'm actually ahead of the rest of the lads in the fitness department and that's what really counts at this early stage.
"I've come through the worst part and the next thing for me to do is get down to some handling exercises.
"I'll be fully fit come the start of the season without a doubt so the only thing for me to do then is stake a claim on the number one jersey."
Tuesday July 10th 2001
Mills next for new deal
Danny Mills is the latest Leeds player to be offered a new five-year deal at the club after enjoying an improved season at Elland Road.
Leeds were obliged to draw up a new contract for Mills when he was called into the England squad as his previous agreement contained a clause entitling him to more money if he stepped up to international football.
The former Charlton defender, who made his England debut against Mexico in May, follows team-mates Ian Harte, Olivier Dacourt and Mark Viduka in being offered a new deal this summer.
Chairman Peter Ridsdale said: "The only person to sort out now is Danny. It is only right that we sit down and recognise his progress with a new contract."
Tuesday July 10th 2001
Kelly's eyes on silverware
Gary Kelly was present as Leeds began pre-season training yesterday, and is confident the club can win some silverware this coming season.
First-team coach Brian Kidd, along with assistant boss Eddie Gray, took charge of the session at the club's Thorp Arch training facilities with David O'Leary expected to return next Monday.
The coming campaign will represent the first full season at the club for record signing Rio Ferdinand, as well as for Robbie Keane, and with the likes of Harry Kewell back to full fitness, Leeds are fancied by many to be the team to challenge Manchester United's dominance.
Kelly, who was 27 yesterday, has joined a growing band of United players confident their efforts will soon be rewarded.
The Republic of Ireland international said: "I say it every year that I fancy us for a cup or something.
"Two years ago we started really well only to fall away, while last season we played really well from Christmas onwards.
"Hopefully, we can put the two together and win something."
Tuesday July 10th 2001
Unlucky start for Dixon
Former Leeds player Kevin Dixon has had the misfortune to suffer a shin stress fracture at his new club Barnsley.
It is likely the young midfielder will be out of action for around four to six weeks and he will probably miss the start of the new season.
Dixon found his route to the Leeds first team blocked and is hoping to force his way into Nigel Spackman's plans with the Oakwell boss confident Dixon could prove to be a useful signing.
He knows the player from his time working with the England Under-18 squad.
Meanwhile, hot prospect Cherno Samba, who said he was quitting Millwall last season, has handed the club a massive boost by agreeing to sign a new contract.
The England Under-16 prodigy was courted by Leeds as well as Liverpool and Arsenal last season and caused uproar at Millwall by declaring that he wanted to leave the club.
The Lions immediately moved to take legal action and chairman Theo Paphitis claimed that agent-power was responsible for the young striker's unrest.
Samba has now had a rethink and is ready to commit his future to Millwall. This came after he played a game for The Lions' youth team at Leeds but failed to impress and injured himself at the same time.
Tuesday July 10th 2001
Reserve fixtures expected
Leeds are due to receive the reserve fixture list for this season's FA Premier Reserve League North on Friday.
Although Leeds will be given the fixtures this week, they will not go on general release until next week to enable clubs to make any alterations to their schedule.
This year there will be an extra two games for United to play due to Bolton's promotion.
Tuesday July 10th 2001
Yeboah hints at pastures new
Former Leeds striker Anthony Yeboah has hinted that he may be about to leave SV Hamburg, believing he doesn't have the full support of the club.
The Ghanaian has recovered from his recent foot injury and has started training after being sidelined for three months.
However, Yeboah feels that he does not have the 100 per cent backing of the German club and despite having a contract until 2002, said: "I am open to all sides. I don't want to sit in the stands.
"When I made use of the option to extend my deal in the spring people thought that I was doing it because of the money.
"That is not true. If someone from the club had asked me not to make use of it then I would have let it pass. I don't want to cause any trouble and want to leave on a high note."
Tuesday July 10th 2001
KEANE AS MUSTARD
by Chris Bargh
UNITED striker Robbie Keane summed up the mood in the camp after the Leeds squad completed their first day of pre-season training - "It's good to be back" said the Irish international.
With Rio Ferdinand, Mark Viduka and Olivier Dacourt all excused the first day of steady work out, gone are the days of the customary torturous running sessions around Roundhay Park, with the new regime led by Eddie Gray and Brian Kidd preferring a more subtle gradual build up.
Too much early pressure can lead to injuries and the United squad are extra keen to avoid a repeat of last season's nightmare when the early campaign was littered with players out on the sidelines.
For Keane it is his first pre-season with Leeds after making last season's loan deal from Inter Milan a permanent £12million switch in the early summer.
And it could have been more difficult for the Dublin born star, who turned 21 years old on Sunday.
"It's good to back and see all the lads after a month away," Robbie told www.lufc.com. "It's not been too hectic today, we've just done some steady running and a bit of ball work.
"We are all hoping to win something this season. We feel we are a good team and have the players to achieve success.
" And it's a boost all the players are still here and Olly Dacourt and Mark Viduka have committed themselves to the Club.
"We will have a lot of games over the season and we need to keep everyone together."
So who does Keane believe will be the main rivals this season, the usual suspects?
"The challenge will be great again from Manchester United, Arsenal, Liverpool etc, and the Premiership is set to be even more exciting," added Robbie
"Arsenal have signed a lot of players and with the like of Veron arriving, it will make it even more exciting for the fans."
And has he set himself any goals for the campaign?
Robbie went on: "I'm not one to set any targets and with the four strikers we have here it will be interesting to see who plays.
"But I think with the amount of games we will need all four of us and it will not be a case of someone playing all the games."
Meanwhile reports linking Leeds with Real Madrid's Steve McManaman and Chelsea's John Harley have been rejected, with all the weekend's transfer speculation continuing to focus on Newcastle's Kieron Dyer despite United stating clearly last week that no bids have been made.
Tuesday July 10th 2001
BACK TO BUSINESS
by Chris Bargh
THE Leeds squad has reported back for the first day of pre-season training, with Eddie Gray and Brian Kidd ready to put the players through their paces.
There'll be no new faces amongst the squad as yet, but United will hope to avoid a repeat of last season when a series of injuries left the squad depleted by the time the season kicked off in August.
The first two weeks will be about building up the levels of fitness before the squad head off to Sweden later this month.
The goalkeeping spot is set to be one of the most keenly contested places in the side, with Nigel and Martyn and Paul Robinson both vying to be number one.
Tabloid speculation last season had Robinson leaving Elland Road when Martyn returned from injury to regain his place, despite the impressive performances of his young replacement.
But Robinson is ready to battle for his place again this season, and is also predicting a challenge from Leeds number three keeper Danny Milosevic.
"One thing I'm sure of is my own future at the club - I'm not going anywhere," he said.
"I'm definitely not for sale. I've just signed a new five-year contract and there's no chance of me leaving Leeds whatsoever, even if I wanted to."
"Everyone's talking about the fight for a place between myself and Nige but I think we should remember Danny Milosevic too.
"It's not as if he's not good enough to make it in the first team because he is, and that makes our position the most hotly-contested at the club."
Monday July 9th 2001
Stadium move latest
Peter Ridsdale attended the Supporters Club AGM at the weekend and heard opinions on the proposed stadium move, stressing nothing is decided.
Supporters club chairman Ray Fell said: "First and foremost Peter assured us that no decision had been made yet, he listened patiently to what the members had to say and he took on board a lot of what was said and answered the questions as honestly as he could. It is something that we appreciate and not a lot of other chairman would give up their Sunday to do so.
"It is a massive decision and it is something which there were mixed opinions about at the meeting.
"Some of the members argued for staying at Elland Road and I was one of those, but there were also others who can imagine Leeds playing in a brand new stadium and fancy having that.
"Peter listened to both sides of the argument and the good thing to come out of the meeting is that he appreciates how emotive this subject is."
Even though Peter Ridsdale continues to say that no decision has been made it would seem elsewhere that people assume the decision has been made. Yesterday's Sunday Telegraph business page said: ''Leeds United are planning to raise £50million by securitising the income from it's ticket sales to finance the construction of a new 50,000 seater stadium away from it's famous Elland Road ground.''
Ridsdale was quoted: "Re-building where we are is a possibility but I think that once we have finished the consultation process, most people will understand it only makes economic sense to move. We are turning people away who want to pay good money for a seat and corporate entertainment."
The piece says the current ground could be enlarge to get more spectators in but is too constrained to expand the corporate entertainment side of things.
Does this mean that all ticket money for four years will be used for the new ground and not new players? if the product on the pitch was allowed to suffer through lack of investment how long would it be before some of the 50,000 people decide to take their money and custom elsewhere?
Leeds have said they will allow fans to vote on the new deal but with the club so obviously keen on a move it will be interesting to see what form the vote takes and who will count the votes and announce them.
Leeds have said fans will get a vote but they have never said that they would be bound by the results of any vote.
Monday, July 9th 2001
Macca staying put/ Foxes chase Harley
Reported target Steve McManaman says he intends to stay in Spain whilst Leicester City are ready to match any Leeds bid for Chelsea's Jon Harley.
Real Madrid star McManaman has ruled out a return to the Premiership and has vowed to stay and fight for his place at the Bernabeu.
The winger has dismissed suggestions that he will be shown the exit door in order to accommodate France World Cup winner Zinedine Zidane and Valencia's Gaizka Mendieta, who are both expected to join the Real revolution imminently.
McManaman feels that Real would be feared throughout Europe if Zidane signs and is relishing the chance of competing with the likes of current stars Luis Figo and Raul for his place in the starting line-up.
Leeds, along with Arsenal, are said to be monitoring the former Liverpool star's situation, but McManaman is determined to see out his contract and be part of potentially one of the most formidable attacking outfits of recent years.
"I'm happy here, and I don't think the new signings will affect me in any way," he said.
Meanwhile Leicester are tracking reported Whites target Harley, who slipped out-of-favour under Claudio Ranieri at Stamford Bridge last season.
The England Under-21 international full-back is said to be wanted by Leeds and reports suggest that a £5million offer has already been put in for the player, though how true that is remains to be seen.
It is thought that Leicester new boy Dennis Wise has recommended Harley to Foxes boss Peter Taylor and that they are prepared to match any offer Leeds make for the player.
If David O'Leary does really want Harley then he will have a fee in mind for him and he will be unlikely to go above that price.
Monday, July 9th 2001
Whites squad report back
The Leeds squad report back for duty today as they return from their summer breaks and begin their pre-season training programme.
In days gone by, players used to return a stone or two heavier after their summer sabbaticals, though those days are now over and most footballers are almost as fit as they were when they started their holidays.
Alan Smith, in particular, is eager to get back to work and is already looking forward to the new season. Smith, who broke into the full England at the end of the last campaign, commented: "I can't wait to get back. I am the type of person who doesn't like to be sat about doing nothing.
"I am looking forward to the season and I know everyone hopes we can win something and I am no different."
Some of the players have hardly been away at all as they have been at the training complex to work on injuries and fitness. Michael Bridges, Michael Duberry, David Batty and Stephen McPhail, amongst others, have all been seen on a regular basis in a bid to work on their fitness and play a major role in the forthcoming campaign.
Monday, July 9th 2001
Batty explains bike ride
David Batty has admitted club bosses may be unhappy after his tour around Donnington Park racetrack yesterday ahead of the British Grand Prix.
Batty could find himself in hot water after taking a ride around the track on the back of former World Champion Randy Mamola on a specially built 500cc machine.
Leeds United player insurance forbids their footballers to ride motorbikes but Batty has always been a fan of bikes and is often seen at the race meetings.
He explained: "I don't think they (Leeds) would have wanted me to do it.
"I'm not allowed to do any riding on the road.
"I've always been into bikes but football means I don't get to ride them as much as I'd like to.
"Randy was great, you can tell he's a special rider."
Sunday July 8th 2001
Robinson reveals three-way battle
Paul Robinson has backed Aussie keeper Danny Milosevic to challenge strongly for The Whites' number one jersey next season.
The vast majority of pundits have focussed on an intense two-way battle between Robinson and Nigel Martyn for the starting role at Elland Road. But England Under-21 keeper Robinson has stressed he is looking over his shoulder just as much as veteran Martyn.
He said: "Everyone's talking about the fight for a place between myself and Nige but I think we should remember Danny Milosevic too.
"It's not as if he's not good enough to make it in the first team because he is, and that makes our position the most hotly-contested at the club."
Robinson has also reiterated his commitment to the Leeds cause despite the possibility that he could spend the bulk of next season on the bench.
He told Yorkshire Sport: "One thing I'm sure of is my own future at the club - I'm not going anywhere.
"I'm definitely not for sale. I've just signed a new five-year contract and there's no chance of me leaving Leeds whatsoever, even if I wanted to."
Sunday July 8th 2001
Batty's Donington adventure
David Batty will no doubt be asked to explain his pillion ride on the back of a Yamaha before today's British Grand Prix at Donington Park.
The United midfielder was a passenger on a 500cc Yamaha ridden by Randy Mamola, who was world championship runner-up on four occasions. Batty rode the bike despite the fact that the club have forbidden him to ride motorbikes on the road.
Batty revealed after the ride in front of 30,000 fans at Donington Park that he didn't think that his club would have wanted him to do it, but it remains to be seen if the midfielder lands in hot water over his actions.
Sunday July 8th 2001
Harte set for pre-season
Ian Harte is gearing up for the start of another tough pre-season tomorrow as the Leeds squad re-assemble after the summer break.
The Republic of Ireland defender, who featured in his country's two recent World Cup qualifiers, has already started light training by himself as The Whites prepare for a Premiership title assault next season.
Harte said: "I've called in a couple of times at our training ground to do some more training and a bit of work with the weights to try and prepare for the hard work that we'll all be in for next week."
He added: "I've not had much of a holiday from football but I honestly cannot wait for the new season to kick off - it cannot come quick enough as far as I'm concerned.
"I know people say there never seems to be a break from football, but I just love playing," Harte told Yorkshire Sport.
Saturday July 7th 2001
PREMIERSHIP BID IS ON
by Chris Bargh
UNITED Chairman Peter Ridsdale believes Leeds are now set up to mount a massive challenge for the Premiership title following Mark Viduka agreeing new terms and with the rest of the squad settled.
Viduka accepted a new five year contract on Thursday to follow Olivier Dacourt and Ian Harte and now all David O'Leary's squad are tied to Elland Road long term, with only a couple of players to have improvements made to their present contracts.
And despite no new faces arriving at the Club, Peter Ridsdale is adamant that the best work of the summer has been making sure all the current playing staff have stayed put, are happy and ready to challenge for four trophies this season.
Peter told www.lufc.com: "What we now have with Mark agreeing to sign a new improved contract, is to make sure we are really focused on what is happening on the pitch without the speculation about who is leaving the Club.
"We've a couple of negotiations to be done. Danny Mills for instance quite rightly qualifies for an improvement because he's now played for England, and we'll be looking at that.
"But what we have is now a settled squad and I believe we are ready to challenge for the title, especially when you consider in the second half of last season, when we had most of our players fit, we were the best side in the Premiership."
Although there have been no new signings, transfer talk has been constant, with Leeds admitting they are chasing two targets, but will wait to get the right players.
The latest reports have linked Newcastle's Kieron Dyer and now Chelsea' young defender John Harley to Elland Road, but all speculation has been played down.
Peter Ridsdale insists that the current spending binge by Arsenal, Manchester United and the big clubs in Europe only proves Leeds were right to spend big over the last 12 months.
"A year ago we were criticised for spending £49million in a market that at the time was uncertain," added Ridsdale.
"But we had the foresight to bring the players in a year or so and now we've done our business by keeping the squad together.
"We are trying to bring one or two new faces in, but the fact that we're having to wait and be patient shows how far we have come under David O'Leary.
"The quality standard we have set now for anybody we want to bring to Leeds means those player are few and far between.
"That said we will continue to work hard behind the scenes to add the one or two players David wants."
Saturday July 7th 2001
Viduka: interesting revelation?
Don't get me wrong...I'm chuffed to bits that Viduka is apparently to