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Saturday March 31st 2001
Leeds dig in to sink Sunderland
Sunderland 0 2 Leeds United
Smith 33 Viduka 89
15:00 Kickoff
Sunderland: Sorensen , Arca , Craddock (Varga 74) , Carteron , Thome , Gray , Hutchison (Dichio 66) , Schwarz , McCann,Kilbane (Butler T 66) , Phillips
Subs not used: Macho , Williams
Bookings: Phillips 32
Leeds United : Martyn , Ferdinand , Harte , Mills , Radebe (Kelly 46) , Batty , Bowyer , Dacourt (Bakke 8) , Kewell (Keane 83) , Smith , Viduka
Subs not used: Robinson , Wilcox
Bookings: Radebe 21, Smith 57 (s/o 73)
Alan Smith scored before being sent off and Mark Viduka added a late second as Leeds beat fellow Champions League hopefuls Sunderland 2-0.
The result sees David O'Leary's side, who are now unbeaten in nine games, leap-frog Sunderland in the race to secure a place in Europe's prestigious club competition next season.
The Black Cats have now failed to beat Leeds in the League in the last five meetings on Wearside and the early evidence suggested that the Yorkshiremen were intent on spoiling Peter Reid's celebrations of six years in the Sunderland hot-seat.
Mark Viduka threatened to maintain his rich run of form with an early strike. The Australian marksman unleashed a venomous volley that had Sunderland's Thomas Sorensen scrambling across the face of his goal.
Gavin McCann recovered from the knee injury that forced him out of England’s World Cup victory over Albania in midweek to take his place in the line-up. The 23-year-old held his place in an otherwise unchanged side that also included Kevin Kilbane. Frenchman Patrice Carteron also made his home debut.
Kilbane shook off a back injury sustained in the closing stages of the Republic of Ireland's win over Andorra to make the starting eleven.
Lucas Radebe made a return to first-team action for Leeds after missing the last two weeks with a knee injury. Dominic Matteo was ruled out after damaging his ankle ligaments in Scotland's 4-0 win over San Marino and the full-back could miss Leeds' Champions League quarter-final first-leg clash against Deportivo La Coruna.
Sunderland made the brighter start and almost took the lead on six minutes when Julio Arca cleverly disguised a shot before playing in Gavin McCann, but Rio Ferdinand was on hand to deflect the ball wide.
Leeds were forced into a change from the resulting corner when Olivier Dacourt was stretchered off holding his neck after a collision with Don Hutchison. Eirik Bakke replaced the Frenchman.
The home side piled on the pressure and Leeds looked increasingly uncomfortable at the back. Bakke cleared a goal-mouth scramble before Stefan Schwarz tried his luck with a powerful volley after the visitors had failed to clear an Arca corner.
Lee Bowyer squandered a golden opportunity to break the deadlock on 21 minutes when he flashed a shot across the face of Sorensen's goal after beating the offside trap. And the Leeds midfielder missed another chance minutes later when he failed to direct a loose ball into the net after Sorensen had flapped at a Harry Kewell cross.
The Whites forced the opener on 33 minutes after Sunderland had failed to clear an Ian Harte corner. Kewell headed back into the Sunderland penalty area and Alan Smith climbed well to head into the top corner.
But Sunderland were quick to protest after Kevin Phillips appeared to be bundled over when he stole in behind Rio Ferdinand and Lucas Radebe prior to the goal. The £18 million defender appeared to haul the England striker down but match official Steve Dunn waved play on.
Defender Emerson Thome came close to equalizing shortly before the interval but David Batty cleared his header off the line.
Tempers appeared to boil over in the players tunnel when Peter Reid, amongst a host of others, appeared to confront Mr Dunn before match stewards and officials intervened to calm the situation.
Leeds found themselves protesting after the re-start when Jody Craddock looked to trip Smith when he was through on goal, but Dunn again waved play on.
Sunderland should have leveled proceedings on 49 minutes when Hutchison steered a close-range header wide of Nigel Martyn's goal from a Phillips cross.
But it was Leeds who handed the home side a glimmer of hope when firebrand Alan Smith, already booked, received his second caution of the afternoon for a foul on Carteron.
And it appeared to pay dividends as Sunderland raised the tempo. McCann and substitute Danny Dichio both had half chances before Martyn saved brilliantly to deny Arca on 70 minutes.
However, it mattered little when substitute Robbie Keane set up the in-form Viduka to slot home Leeds' second deep into injury time.
Saturday March 31st 2001
Rocastle loses cancer battle
Former Arsenal and Leeds midfielder David Rocastle died last night at the age of 33 after losing his battle with non-Hodgkin's lymphoma.
Rocastle was diagnosed as suffering form the disease, which attacks the immune system, in February and underwent a course of chemotherapy.
Rocastle's agent Jerome Anderson said: "It is with deep regret that I have to announce the sad passing of this young man in the early hours of this morning.
"He fought a very brave battle against non-Hodgkin's lymphoma, which is a form of cancer.
"He was much loved and respected throughout the football world and will be fondly remembered by everyone who knew him."
Rocastle played for Arsenal, Leeds, Manchester City and Chelsea and also represented England.
Rocastle made his name at Arsenal where he won the League Championship in 1989 and 1991 as well as picking up a Milk Cup winners' medal in 1987. He was capped 14 times by England.
Chelsea loaned him out to Norwich before he had a spell at Hull City. He most recently played club football in Malaysia.
Rocastle leaves a wife Janet and three children.
Saturday March 31st 2001
'Turncoat' Leeds player faces lifetime of hate
Martin Wainwright
A "turncoat" defendant in the Leeds United trial faces a lifetime of hate for implicating a star colleague, a jury was told yesterday.
Michael Duberry, who unexpectedly contradicted hours of defence evidence about England international Jonathan Woodgate, would be despised as a "grass", his barrister told Hull crown court.
"Football fans will abuse him for the damage his evidence has done to one of their idols," said Claire Montgomery QC. "Did you see that he was barely holding back tears on the first day of his evidence? His decision has cost this man dear."
Duberry, who had not been expected to give evidence, listened in the dock, separated from Woodgate, their Leeds United colleague Lee Bowyer, and two other men charged in connection with an assault which left student Sarfraz Najeib unconscious in January last year.
The 24-year-old reserve defender, of Leeds, denies conspiring with Woodgate, Paul Clifford and Neale Caveney, all 21 and from Middlesbrough, to pervert the course of justice after the attack.
Bowyer, 24, of Leeds, Wood-gate, Clifford and Caveney deny affray and causing grievous bodily harm with intent to Mr Najeib who is still recovering from nose and cheek fractures and a broken leg. The trial, which is expected to see the jury retire next week, has heard how a gang of white youths punched, kicked and bit Mr Najeib after a drunken row outside a nightclub.
Miss Montgomery said that it had been "absurd and cruel" for other defence barristers to suggest that Duberry had testified against Woodgate because he wanted his first-team place. She also denounced claims that he might have calculated that Leeds would sell him at the insistence of fans, and that he would take 10% of a likely £5m transfer fee.
"You have seen him. Do you think he is so fickle, so shallow that he would sell his best friend down the river?" she asked the jury of four women and seven men.
Earlier, the court was told by Aidan Marron QC, for Caveney, that the savagery of the attack on Mr Najeib, a computer studies student at Leeds Metropolitan University, "could almost bankrupt the English language before one adequately expressed one's horror at it". But he warned the jury that "such natural feelings" had to take place to a dispassionate review of the evidence in court.
Caveney had been willingly prepared to take part in over 15 identity parades, he said, and had never been picked out by witnesses of the attack on Mr Najeib. He might have lied about not knowing who was involved in the beating and kicking, out of loyalty to friends, but "lies do not equal guilt."
The trial continues on Monday.
Friday March 30th 2001
Results show big increase in profits
Leeds Sporting PLC's results for the half year ended 31-12-2000 show that turnover at the club has increased by 67% to £41 million.
The operating profit before transfers are taken into account is up to £6.2 million compared with £2.3 million in 1999.
Total income from TV and broadcasting for the six monthly period was a massive £15.9 million which is more than double the previous year and participation in the Champions League accounted for £4.8 million of the increase.
Friday March 30th 2001
Batty not fully fit yet
David Batty believes the season will end before he is back to what he considers to be full fitness following almost a year out of the game.
Batty has fought his way back to fitness after a succession of injuries and illness which would have seen a lesser man quit the game. You don't get to be the fans' favourite for nothing though and Batts has only added to his reputation by fighting his way back to fitness after most observers thought he was finished.
He said: "I still wouldn't say I am back to my full fitness I reckon I can get a little bit sharper and that will come the more games I play. It could be a scenario where at the end of the season I've run out of games and it will have come a little bit too quickly for me because I'll be just getting going.
"Then I will be really looking forward to looking at next season's fixture list. I hope there is a lot better to come from me but we'll just have to wait and see."
Batty this week announced his retirement from international football but has tipped teammate Alan Smith for greatness at both club and country level, as a midfielder. Smith, like Batty, is a firm fans' favourite as they were both born in Leeds and supported the side before going on to play for the club.
Batty firmly believes that Smith has a great future ahead of him but it comes as a surprise that he thinks that midfield will eventually be Smith's best position. Batty said: "We have got some great players here at Leeds but out of all of them, if I were manager, Smith would be the one I'd want most in the team.
"He's got every quality a manager wants in a player; he's aggressive, scores goals, isn't intimidated by anybody and can play in various positions. I think his best position will eventually be midfield. He loves running around and working so hard and we are very similar in that respect. He's got the world at his feet and will go far for club and country."
Smith will no doubt be pleased that he's held in such high esteem especially by someone like Batty but his immediate concern is trying to secure a place in the starting line up when there is so much competition for places. It remains to be seen if Smith eventually drops into midfield but wherever he plays you can guarantee the usual 100% commitment.
Thursday March 29th 2001
Martyn Celtic bound?
Nigel Martyn has been linked with a multi-million pound summer move to Martin O'Neill's Celtic, with Liverpool and Fulham also keen to sign him.
With Paul Robinson pushing hard to be the number one for both club and country it is going to be very difficult to keep him happy sat on the bench. Leeds will obviously not want to lose Robinson who looks to have a glorious future ahead of him and was outstanding in Martyn's absence this season. They will be equally reluctant to let Martyn go who has been a great servant to the club since his £2.25 million move from Crystal Palace in the summer of 1996.
As things stand one of them is going to be disappointed with his place on the bench next season. Leeds would definitely not want to let the big Cornishman go to a Premiership rival and then see him come back to haunt them but a move north of the border could prove to be the compromise that suits all parties.
Martyn is 35 in the summer and can't go on forever so a chance for Leeds to get four or five million pounds back for him now would represent good business especially with Robinson waiting in the wings.
Wednesday March 28th 2001
Preventing aid means Bowyer is guilty, court told
Lee Bowyer should be found guilty of causing grievous bodily harm to an Asian student even if he did not lay a finger on him, Hull Crown Court was told today.
Nicholas Campbell QC, prosecuting, told the jury at Hull Crown Court in his closing speech that Bowyer attacked Shahzad Najeib as his 20-year-old brother Sarfraz was being kicked and beaten senseless on the ground.
Mr Campbell said that by stopping Shahzad from helping his younger brother, Bowyer "gave assistance" to the gang attacking Sarfraz.
Anyone shouting encouragement at the gang was also as guilty as those who actually carried out the savage attack, he said.
During the seven-week trial the jury has been told that Bowyer stopped Shahzad from helping his brother, and in the process got some of the 21-year-old's blood on his jacket.
A forensic scientist has told the court that there was a one in a billion chance of the blood on Bowyer's designer leather jacket not having come from Shahzad.
Mr Campbell said: "Shahzad was attacked as he went to the aid of his brother. We submit that the attack on Shahzad was in order to prevent him from interfering with the attack on Sarfraz.
"Anyone who took part in the attack on Shahzad was also taking part in the attack of Sarfraz by keeping away the enemy who might interfere."
Shahzad Najeib suffered facial injuries during the alleged attack in Mill Hill, Leeds, in January last year.
During his evidence, he told the jury he was punched to the ground and then hit again, causing an injury to his ear.
"The evidence of the blood on the right cuff of Lee Bowyer's jacket is consistent with the explanation that he was involved in that attack on Shahzad in Mill Hill," Mr Campbell told the jury.
"Therefore even if you are not satisfied on the identification evidence that he was in the group attacking Sarfraz, you can be satisfied that he was lending assistance to those who were attacking Sarfraz by punching and otherwise assaulting Shahzad."
Mr Campbell said it was like the driver of a getaway car in a burglary, who did not break into the house, but was just as guilty as the burglars.
Witnesses have also told the jury that there was a lot of shouting in Mill Hill while that attack on Sarfraz was taking place.
Mr Campbell said: "Those doing the shouting would be as guilty as those raining the blows on Sarfraz Najeib."
Mr Campbell said all the witnesses in the trial were "courageous" in giving evidence, adding: "How very different in the case of the five defendants."
The victory embrace between Bowyer and Caveney which was caught on closed-circuit television footage after the attack on Sarfraz was significant.
"It contradicts the accounts these young men have given," said Mr Campbell.
"It marks the end of the joint enterprise which was the chase, the attack upon Sarfraz Najeib and to an extent the lesser attack on Shahzad."
Mr Campbell said one woman's demeanour when giving evidence during the trial was different to the behaviour of many of the men giving evidence.
"Male witnesses may have been over-awed by being placed in court in the presence of two great footballers," he told the jury.
Bowyer, Jonathan Woodgate, Neale Caveney and Paul Clifford deny causing grievous bodily harm with intent to Mr Najeib. They also deny affray. Michael Duberry, Woodgate, Clifford and Caveney also deny conspiracy to pervert the course of justice after the attack.
Wednesday March 28th 2001
'Depor four' set to play
Deportivo may field the four players suspected of carrying false passports in next Wednesday's Champions League quarter-final first leg.
The Spanish champions weathered a storm this week which had threatened to see them kicked out of the competition and Leeds given a bye into the semi-finals.
But, even after UEFA had given the green light for Deportivo's continued participation, it was thought that the quartet - Emerson, Helder, Jacques Songo'o and Aldo Duscher - would not be eligible for the two legs of the quarter-finals.
However, it now looks as though they will be available to face The Whites.
Spanish FA secretary general Gerardo Gonzalez said: "There are no irregularities in the passports of the Deportivo players."
And the press officer for the Spanish FA supported that stance, saying: "There is no passport scandal because there are no problems with the passports."
Tickets for the quarter-final first leg are selling well and the match is expected to be a sell-out.
Tuesday March 27th 2001
Massive Sunderland Preview online
Saturday's clash against Sunderland at the Stadium of Light looks set to be a classic, with both sides battling for a Champions League place. With this in mind, our Preview section is bigger than ever - and will be updated throughout the week.
Click here for more....
Tuesday March 27th 2001
UEFA GIVE DEPOR THE ALL CLEAR
By Ian Parkes, PA Sport
Four Deportivo La Coruna players involved in an investigation regarding potential passport irregularities appear to have been given the go ahead to play in next week's Champions League quarter-final with Leeds.
Early claims had suggested Leeds, who face Depor in the first leg at Elland Road next Wednesday, could have been awarded a bye through to the last four if allegations of false documentation had been proven.
The quartet of players involved were Brazilian and former Middlesbrough midfielder Emerson, Argentinian Aldo Pedro Duscher, Cameroon goalkeeper Jacques Songo'o and Angola-born Helder, who played for Newcastle earlier this season.
UEFA director of communications Mike Lee today confirmed Deportivo would not be kicked out of the competition even if the four players were found guilty.
Only last week the Spanish Football Association suspended the playing licence of Alaves' Martin Herrera, leading to the possibility of the same action being taken against Emerson, Helder, Songo'o and Duscher.
That would have led to their withdrawal from the Deportivo squad, ruling them out of the two-legged last eight showdown with Leeds.
But Spanish FA secretary-general Gerardo Gonzalez, speaking in El Mundo Deportivo, revealed: "There are no irregularities in the passports of the Depor players."
Spanish FA press officer Raul del Prado also confirmed to PA Sport: "There is no passport scandal because there are no problems with the passports."
The situation has left Deportivo president Augusto Lendoiro fuming as he added: "This (story) doesn't have feet or a head. There is no reason to it and it's not even worth commenting on."
Helder, meanwhile, is set to earn his 37th cap for Portugal following his latest call up, which left Deportivo coach Javier Iruretagoyena adding: "It has no logic, especially in the case of Helder who is a Portuguese international.
"I don't think there is any possibility of anything happening."
Monday March 26th 2001
Student's retaliation 'triggered street attack'
An Asian student allegedly attacked by two Leeds United footballers "triggered" the attack by throwing a punch, a court has heard.
Sarfraz Najeib was hit by James Hewison, a friend of Jonathan Woodgate, outside a Leeds nightclub and retaliated, the jury at Hull Crown Court was told.
Mr Najeib was then chased by a group including Woodgate and team-mate Lee Bowyer to Mill Hill, where the prosecution allege they carried out the savage attack.
In his closing speech to the jury, Nicholas Campbell QC, prosecuting, said: "That punch by Sarfraz Najeib changed everything. If he had not done it, it's likely nothing would have happened to his group."
Mr Campbell said Mr Najeib was then chased by the group "one of whom Sarfraz Najeib had had the tenacity to punch.
"We submit that this was the trigger that ignited this incident. Sarfraz was struck first. He perhaps foolishly struck back. That blow was the signal for James Hewison's group to mete out punishment."
Mr Campbell said that none of the four men accused of the attack - Woodgate, Bowyer, Neale Caveney and Paul Clifford - admitted in their evidence that they saw the incident between Mr Najeib and Mr Hewison.
"If they admitted they saw James Hewison being punched by Sarfraz Najeib they would have to go down the route of admitting that they ran because they wanted revenge," said Mr Campbell. "Their failure to tell you what really happened is the first of the lies you have heard."
Woodgate, 21, of Middlesbrough, Bowyer, 24, of Leeds, Caveney and Clifford, both 21, of Middlesbrough, deny causing grievous bodily harm with intent to Mr Najeib, 20. They also deny affray. Michael Duberry, 25, Woodgate, Clifford and Caveney deny conspiracy to pervert the course of justice after the attack.
Mr Najeib, of Rotherham, South Yorkshire, suffered serious injuries including a broken leg and fractured cheekbone.
Monday March 26th 2001
'People might say I've sold out my mate to save myself' - Soccer stars on trial
The careers and freedom of three top footballers are on a knife-edge after one of them changed his story over a gang assault on a student.
Denis Campbell
Sunday March 25, 2001
The Observer
Court four emptied quickly just after 1pm last Tuesday. Outside, the five defendants, a handful of their relatives, the numerous lawyers involved in the case and journalists covering the trial reached for cigarettes, began talking on mobile phones or made plans for lunch.
In the throng, Leeds United defender Michael Duberry quietly told his teammate and co-accused Jonathan Woodgate that he needed a word. Unnoticed, the pair slipped into a legal consultation room opposite court four.
What Duberry told Woodgate was painful for both of them, but for different reasons. After 14 months mulling over the events surrounding a brutal gang attack on Asian student Sarfraz Najeib - allegedly carried out by Woodgate, his fellow Leeds and England player Lee Bowyer and two friends of Woodgate's - Duberry was finally going to tell everything he claimed to know.
He said he had been agonising about the decision, which he knew could affect Woodgate, who was not just his partner in the Leeds defence but also his best friend at the Yorkshire club. According to Duberry, the news shocked Woodgate, who allegedly asked him not to do it. But Duberry's mind was made up.
Later that afternoon, he left the dock at the back of the court and made the short walk into the witness box. His broad, imposing 6'1" frame, which many Premiership strikers have found to be a solid obstacle, dwarfed almost everyone else in court four. After six weeks of dramatic, often horrific evidence in this high-profile case, what Duberry then said was truly sensational.
He described how, when he met Woodgate in Leeds city centre shortly after midnight on 12 January last year, his teammate confessed to him that he and some friends 'had just had a fight with some Asians' and that one mate, Paul Clifford, had bitten the victim. That directly contradicted the testimony already given by Woodgate and Clifford, who had strenuously denied any involvement, as had Bowyer and Neale Caveney, another friend of Woodgate's from his native Middlesbrough. Those four are accused of affray and causing grievous bodily harm with intent to Najeib. Duberry himself is not accused of perpetrating any violence, but is charged with conspiracy to pervert the course of justice for allegedly helping those who had.
Speaking calmly and clearly, Duberry also told the court how, later that night, Woodgate and several of his friends had come back to his house and were drinking tea he had made when Woodgate spoke on the phone to fellow Leeds player Michael Bridges. The conversation left him visibly shocked. 'He explained that the lad's in a bad way', said Duberry. 'The ambulance was there and the police were there. He said the lad is half-dead.'
Najeib, the 20-year-old victim, was indeed in a bad way. A row had developed outside the Majestyk nightclub between him, his brother Shazad and two friends, and a group which included Woodgate, Bowyer and several friends. Woodgate had drunk eight pints of the vodka-based Mule alcopop during an evening spent visiting various pubs and a lap-dancing bar called DV8, while Bowyer had begun drinking that afternoon and continued that evening.
The spark for the trouble outside the club was the Najeib group's taunting of James Hewison, a friend of Woodgate's who was very drunk, that he couldn't hold his drink. Shazad Najeib admits he threw a punch at Hewison. The resulting melee led to bespectacled Sarfraz Najeib being chased, tripped, knocked unconscious, then kicked, punched, stamped on and bitten by his attackers as he lay helpless, defenceless and apparently lifeless on the ground.
When Shazad Najeib reached his brother after his assailants had run away, he feared he was dead. Witnesses who saw the bloodied body lying prostrate on the pavement in Mill Lane assumed the same thing. Sarfraz recovered consciousness in hospital and his multiple injuries - a broken leg, broken nose and cuts and bruises - proved not to be life-threatening.
After 50 minutes on the stand, Duberry's ordeal was over, at least temporarily. Mr Justice Poole, the trial judge, adjourned proceedings until the morning. As the judge warned the eight men and four women of the jury not to speak to anyone about the case, the shaven-headed centre-half stood in the dock with his head bowed and quietly wiped some tears from his eyes.
As he wept, counsel for the other four went away to work out a strategy - faced with this sudden and unexpected turn of events. It was no surprise when his four co-accused did not even acknowledge him as the court emptied again.
By next morning, the eight journalists who had witnessed Duberry's testimony had become 40. As if having three of their main stars on trial was not bad enough, the player's next set of explosive allegations effectively put the Elland Road club in the dock beside them. Now he recalled that when he had tried to change a false statement he had given to the police just after the attack in an attempt to help Woodgate, the person forbidding him to do so was none other than Peter McCormick, a solicitor and director of Leeds United. According to Duberry, McCormick was party to a deliberate and concerted attempt - involving at least himself and Woodgate - to save the players' skins by telling lies.
On 31 January last year, Duberry had told the police in a sworn statement that Woodgate and his friends had come to his house in a taxi. That was 'a lie because I did not want to get Woody into any more trouble, so I went along with his story,' the player said in court. It was a small, but significant, lie but it unsettled Duberry, who told in court how it made him question the wisdom of giving a false statement in the first place. That nagging anxiety finally spilled over on Tuesday.
Early on, police investigators found grainy CCTV footage shot near the Majestyk on the night of the assault showing Woodgate's party leaving a taxi and heading with Duberry towards his black Range Rover. Duberry became anxious when police said they wanted to interview him again, but this time as a suspect, not a mere witness.
Duberry says that, when he went to the offices of McCormick's firm, a solicitor warned him he could go to jail for perjury if he changed his story. He also claimed that, next day, McCormick himself gave Duberry the same advice: 'Say what is in your statement and stick to it.' With McCormick present, Duberry repeated his false statement to the police in a second interview. But, increasingly concerned that the players' lies were unravelling, he changed solicitors and at last told the truth about giving Woodgate's party a lift. Detectives from West Yorkshire police were already finding holes in statements taken from all three players. During the trial Woodgate has admitted telling lies to officers when he was arrested while Bowyer has conceded that he 'made mistakes' in a police interview. Both deny any involvement in the group attack on the student. In his evidence, Woodgate agreed he had joined the group of white men chasing the four young Asians but claimed he did so only because he was 'being nosy' and that he fell over, hurting his ankle, and thus did not 'pitch in' to the assault.
The 21-year-old, who has played for England, mumbled so badly that the judge told him to speak up so that he could be heard. Bowyer seemed a much more confident figure in the witness box when he explained how he too had tripped up during the chase from the Majestyk across City Square and into Boar Lane and, like Woodgate, never made it to Mill Lane, a short side-street beside some railway arches, where the incident unfolded. Najeib remembered little except running for his life, being tripped and falling unconscious.
Woodgate and Bowyer maintain that eyewitnesses who saw them in or beside Mill Lane at the time of the assault must have been mistaken. A barmaid has testified that she saw both players running from Mill Lane. Woodgate jogged around the corner, slowed down and then walked past her, while Bowyer shot her a 'scowl' when he bumped into her as he hurried past, said the woman, who is a Leeds United fan. A barman told of seeing Woodgate jumping in the air and landing two-footed on Najeib's body, which 'jolted' with the impact.
'I didn't see him [Najeib] try to block any of the strikes,' said the witness. 'I didn't hear any cries of pain. He was just a body lying there, he was just being kicked with no response from him.' Another witness told how one of Najeib's attackers had acted 'disgustingly' like a dog attacking its prey when he kneeled over the motionless student and bit him. Although two witnesses at first accused Bowyer of this act, the Crown's case is that 21-year-old Clifford carried out that part of the attack.
CCTV cameras caught Bowyer and Caveney embracing after the attack, in what Crown counsel Nicholas Campbell QC claims was 'a victory hug'. Cross-examining Bowyer, he accused the midfielder and ex-captain of England's under-21s of being 'exhilarated' by the group's alleged thuggery.
In court, they share little jokes in the dock. Woodgate sometimes turns to his left and whispers something to Bowyer, who laughs before passing the joke on to Clifford and then Caveney. For men possibly facing a lengthy prison sentence, they laugh a lot. With closing speeches due to start tomorrow, they may well learn their fate later this week. The one person who isn't included in the jokes is Duberry, whose tense, hunched figure cuts a stark contrast to his co-accused.
An empty chair separates him from them in the dock, where all five are watched over by a lone uniformed guard from Group 4 security. The seat had been occupied by another defendant who had earlier been acquitted. After his three days of evidence last week, it seems symbolic of the gulf which now divides him from them. Duberry admits that his action may well have cost him any chance of staying at Elland Road.
'To be honest, I think I might come out of this looking bad because people might say I have sold out my mate to save myself,' he said. 'I might not be liked at Elland Road but if in saving myself I had to give the truthful version, that's what I had to do.'
Sunday March 25th 2001
Leeds may land Euro quarters bye
Leeds could be handed a bye into the Champions League semis if quarter-final opponents Deportivo are found guilty of passport irregularities.
Reports suggest the Spanish champions could be sensationally thrown out of the Europe's premier football competition amid claims that four of their players have false documents. The allegations centre around Brazilian midfielder Emerson - formerly of Middlesbrough - defender Cristavo Helder, who was on loan with Newcastle last season, goalkeeper Jacques Songo'o and midfielder Aldo Predro Duscher.
An investigation into the alleged irregularities has already been launched and with the findings set to be published next week, UEFA has already admitted the strongest possible punishment could be handed out to the La Coruna side.
A UEFA spokesman confirmed: "We are monitoring this situation very closely. Normally an issue dealing with false documents is a matter for FIFA and the domestic leagues.
"But we will be looking at these findings very closely and if the allegations are as serious as we think they are, we will take appropriate action.
"At this stage, I have to leave our options open. But we cannot rule out the possibility of dismissing the club from the tournament.
"If that happens, it is possible their next opponents Leeds will be allowed into the next round of the competition," he told the News of the World.
The Spanish FA have launched their own investigation into the alleged false passports and have promised to throw the players out of their league if found guilty.
Leeds themselves do not want to become embroiled in the argument and know only too well that the chances of Deportivo being thrown out of the Champions League look extremely remote.
First phase Champions League opponents AC Milan were at the centre of the alleged false registering of goalkeeper Nelson Dida, and whilst found guilty of an irregularity, the Italian side were allowed to progress to the next round of the competition.
However, Leeds chairman Peter Ridsdale commented: "This is issue is nothing to do with Leeds United but we are happy for UEFA to take any action they deem fit."
Saturday March 24th 2001
International news
Rio Ferdinand was in World Cup qualifying action on Saturday as England fought back from a goal down to beat Finland 2-1 at Anfield.
A Gary Neville own goal just before the half-hour mark gave Finland the lead. With the break fast approaching England leveled terms as Michael Owen fired home. Five minutes into the second half David Beckham scored what proved to be the winner for Sven Goran Eriksson's troops.
Nigel Martyn was on the bench for England as David Seaman was named in the starting eleven.
Meanwhile, Dominic Matteo made his competitive debut for Scotland as Craig Brown's men surrendered a two goal lead to draw 2-2 with Belgium.
Scotland made a dream start as Billy Dodds bagged a brace in the first half-hour, one from open play and one from the penalty spot.
Mark Wilmots struck on 58 minutes to give Belgium hope before substitute van Buyton broke Scottish hearts with an injury time equaliser.
Saturday March 24th 2001
Ridsdale delight at double deal
Leeds chairman Peter Ridsdale has spoken of his delight after Alan Smith and Alan Maybury signed extended contracts with the Elland Road club.
England Under-21 international Smith signed a five-year extension to his existing contract last week in a deal that is said to have quadrupled his current terms.
And Republic of Ireland ace Maybury, who played his first senior game for three years in Leeds' 3-3 draw against Lazio in their final Champions League group game, also signed a one-year extension.
Maybury would have been able to move on a free this summer but Ridsdale says that the added security of an extended deal will enable the highly-rated defender to establish himself as first-team regular.
Ridsdale, currently enjoying a short break away from Elland Road, believes it is a sign of the Leeds' rise to becoming genuine title contenders that the duo wanted to stay with the club, saying: "It has been a great week for the club and I think it's confirmation of what we're trying to do as a club.
"We have a squad of good young quality players and these lads have shown that they want to be a part of it."
Ridsdale also confirmed that the club would review young striker Tony Hackworth's future at the end of the season after he snubbed the chance of a £125,000 move to Second Division Notts County.
Ridsdale told the Yorkshire Evening Post: "We accepted the offer for Tony because we didn't want to stand in his way if he wanted to move on."
Friday March 23rd 2001
DACOURT EYES FIRST FRENCH CAP
by Chris Bargh
LEEDS midfielder Olivier Dacourt is on the verge of winning a call up to the French national squad and has thanked his club for helping him get so close to achieving his dream.
Dacourt plays for the France A side that takes on Germany A at the Stade de L'An II tonight, and an impressive performance could put him in line for a call to the senior squad.
"The experience I'm currently having, I would wish it on anyone," Dacourt told Les Dernieres Nouvelles d'Alsace.
"I'm lucky to be in a club whose aim is to practice beautiful football and my selection with the France A team rewards all the work I've done.
"But my first goal is to be good with my club Leeds, the rest will follow. Until the 2002 World Cup loads of things can happen.
"It's clear that Roger Lemerre will count on the group that won the Euro 2000, but I know that I'm valuable to them
"I'm in a great club who is going to keep growing. I feel totally integrated, no problem at all.
"I'm building my career. This year I wanted to play in the Premiership and Leeds gave me the opportunity to do so. It's real happiness."
Friday March 23rd 2001
Ferguson linked as summer target
Rangers skipper Barry Ferguson is being linked as a possible summer transfer target for David O'Leary.
Leeds aren't the only club linked as Arsenal and Chelsea are also interested and reports suggest Liverpool have approached the Glasgow giants to try and get first option on the midfielder, should he leave Ibrox.
It's also claimed that Liverpool could be ready to offer £10 million to prize him away from Rangers, although there is stiff competition for the signature of the 23 year old, who's also impressed at international level with Scotland.
It is hard to see where Leeds would be able to play Ferguson if they bought him, the cover they already have in that position is excellent so a move does seem unlikely.
Thursday March 22nd 2001
NEDVED BANNED FOR MAYBURY CHALLENGE
Lazio midfielder Pavel Nedved has been banned for three European club competition matches by UEFA following a foul on Leeds' Alan Maybury in last week's Champions League game.
The foul came in the dying stages of the match at Elland Road which ended 3-3, but was not spotted by the match referee.
But based on video evidence, UEFA's Control and Disciplinary Body have handed down the ban to the Czech.
Leeds complained about the foul, which was almost immediately followed by a lesser foul by a Leeds player.
Sinisa Mihajlovic netted Lazio's equaliser from the subsequent free-kick, but the English club protested that the foul on Maybury should have been awarded first.
SMITH SIGNS NEW DEAL!!
by Chris Bargh
UNITED striker Alan Smith has ended any lingering speculation over his Leeds future by yesterday signing a new improved five year contract.
The 20 year old England U-21 international was rumoured to be stalling over the new offer which is reward for his magnificent performances this season in the Premiership and the Champions League.
Suggestions had been made that Smith was unhappy with the new terms offered, but this was strongly refuted by Leeds Chairman Peter Ridsdale two weeks ago.
Now the Rothwell born star, who had three years to run on his present contract, has extended his future at Elland Road in a deal that is said to quadruple his present terms.
Smith admitted he was overjoyed. "I'm delighted to have signed. Leeds are my home town club," he said.
"I would never ever want to leave and I'm so pleased this has been sorted out."
A delighted Peter Ridsdale confirmed Alan had signed on the dotted line, saying: "We are delighted that Alan has committed his long term future to the Club.
"This emphasises our determination to look after and reward the home grown players we have developed here and we are delighted that Alan has put pen to paper.
"Alan has a vital part to play in Leeds' long term future."
Smithy later added further comments on his own personal website:
He said : "I put pen to paper today on a new contract with Leeds United. It's a five-year deal and I could not be happier. There's been the odd bit of speculation in the newspapers about me not being happy here but nothing could be further from the truth. I'm very happy at Leeds.
"There was never any doubt that I would stay with Leeds and sign a new deal. I was never worried about things because I knew I was always going to sign. It was just a matter of time really. And now I'm happy to stay for the next five years and even beyond that.
"I'm a local lad. Leeds are the team I grew up watching and the one team that I always wanted to play for. I was delighted to have been taken on by them as a youngster and I'm now looking forward to trying to help the club win things over the next five years.
"My old contract had nearly three years to run and I didn't seek a new one. The club offered me it and that shows the club care about their players. Things are going very well for the club just now. We're doing well in the Champions' League and we're picking up nicely in the Premiership."
Wednesday March 21st 2001
Duberry: 'Woodgate fought Asians'
Leeds United's Michael Duberry today sensationally told Hull Crown Court that his team-mate and best friend Jonathan Woodgate had admitted to him that he had been in a fight with a group of Asians on the night student Sarfraz Najeib was beaten up. He also said that Woodgate had admitted that one of the co-accused, Paul Clifford, had "bitten one of the lads".
Duberry told the court that following the attack on Sarfraz Najeib, he had met Woodgate near the Majestyk nightclub in Leeds city centre.
"He (Woodgate) said they had just had a fight with some Asians," said Duberry, who said he had had a further conversation with Woodgate about the fight. "He said his mate, Clifford, had bitten one of the lads."
Duberry said Woodgate was his best friend and that he had only decided on Monday night to take the witness stand. "It's not been easy at all," added Duberry, who later stood with his head bowed, wiping his eyes.
He had denied at any stage offering to destroy any incriminating clothing.
Woodgate, his team-mate Lee Bowyer, Neale Caveney and Paul Clifford have denied affray and causing grievous bodily harm to Sarfraz Najeib. The case continues.
Tuesday March 20th 2001
England doubt for Martyn
Nigel Martyn's England career could be over if there is any significance in the squad order which was announced on Sunday.
He appears to be third in the pecking order if you believe that the list is given in order of preference - the list goes David Seaman, David James, Nigel Martyn and Richard Wright.
It is not an alphabetical list and it is not in club order. It could just be a random list but that seems unlikely.
Following his mistake at Charlton in front of Sven Goran Eriksson at the weekend and his blunder against Manchester United, Martyn looks to have fallen from grace.
He is not at the top of his form and this has led to speculation that with Paul Robinson waiting in the wings at both club and international level, Martyn will be sold this summer.
Liverpool, Leicester and Fulham are the favourites to make a bid.
Monday March 19th 2001
KIDD FOCUSSING ON LEEDS
Leeds United assistant coach Brian Kidd has quit his England Under-21 post.
Kidd, who was appointed youth development coach at Elland Road last May, was recently promoted to first-team coach and has decided he wants to concentrate on his duties under David O'Leary.
The 51-year-old would have been involved with the young England side facing Finland on Friday night.
His decision leaves the Under-21s fortunes in the hands of technical director Howard Wilkinson and assistant Sammy Lee.
"I now want to concentrate on my new job at Elland Road. I have spoken to Howard Wilkinson and thanked him for permitting me to work with the under-21s," he said.
Kidd built his reputation assisting Alex Ferguson at Old Trafford for eight years but left to take over as manager at Blackburn Rovers in December 1998.
The former Manchester United and Everton striker could not prevent the club's relegation from the Premiership and left the following season before taking up employment at Elland Road last year.
Saturday March 17th 2001
Another crucial win!
Today's victory against Charlton Athletic at the Valley was crucial - if we were to keep up the pressure on our rivals at the top of the Premiership table. The win takes us up to 5th place.
The game started superbly for us, with Viduka scoring the second ever fastest Premiership goal - in just 11 seconds. Bartlett equalised for the home side after 18 minutes, following an error by Martyn. However, we wrapped up the three points just one minute into the second half.
Following a Charlton attack, Kewell ran the full length of the pitch before passing to Smithy, who buried the ball past the keeper.
Both sides had chances to add to the score but we managed to hold on for a valuable win. The only slight downside were five bookings: to Viduka, Smith, Kewell, Mills and Batty. Overall, though, DOL will be a happy man tonight.
Saturday March 17th 2001
Charlton v Leeds Preview
Read our Preview of Saturday's crunch game by clicking here.
Saturday March 17th 2001
Ridsdale fires Viduka warning
Leeds chairman Peter Ridsdale has warned Italian giants Roma that 18-goal top scorer Mark Viduka is not for sale.
The Serie A leaders have revealed their admiration for the Australian international and are expected to lodge an £16million bid for the striker over the summer.
But Ridsdale, whose side face Spanish champions Deportivo La Coruna in the Champions League quarter-finals, insists their £6million summer signing from Celtic is not going anywhere.
"Mark signed from Celtic on a five-year contract last year," Ridsdale said. "I've spoken to Mark and he tells me he wants to stay. We haven't had a bid from anybody.
"We're in the process of building a squad that can compete at the highest level on an on-going basis.
"We have proved that by signing Mark, Olivier Dacourt, Dominic Matteo, Rio Ferdinand and Robbie Keane.
"I'm not in the mood to start splitting that squad up. If anybody is out there counting their lira to see how much they can afford to bid, then they should save their energy and look elsewhere," Ridsdale told The Daily Mail.
Viduka has already played down the link to Italy and insists his future lies at Elland Road, suggesting that even if Roma made overtures for the man they believe can become 'the new Batistuta', they would be wasting their time.
Friday March 16th 2001
LEEDS FACE DEPORTIVO
by Chris Bargh
UNITED have drawn Spanish Champions Deportivo La Coruna in the Champions League quarter-finals.
United will be at home first on either Tuesday 3rd or Wednesday 4th April, with the second leg on the 17th or 18th of April.
If they qualify for the semi-final, they will face the winners of the tie between Arsenal and Valencia, in the first two weeks of May, home and away.
At the draw, Leeds Chairman Peter Ridsdale said Leeds were delighted to be returning to Spain again, having already played Real Madrid this season.
"We always knew it was going to be difficult, and are just pleased to be in the last 8. It's great for England to have three representatives in this draw, because together we're putting English football back on the map."
Other ties:
Manchester United v Bayern Munich
Galatasaray v Real Madrid
Arsenal v Valencia
Deportivo's Champions League Results 2000-2001
13.09 v Panathinaikos FC (A) 1-1
19.09 v Hamburg SV (H) 2-1
26.09 v Juventus FC (A) 0-0
18.10 v Juventus FC (H) 1-1
24.10 v Panathinaikos FC (H) 1-0
08.11 v Hamburger SV (A) 1-1
21.11 v Paris Saint-Germain FC (A) 3-1
06.12 v Milan AC (H) 0-1
14.02 v Galatasaray SK (A) 0-1
20.02 v Galatasaray SK (H) 2-0
07.03 v Paris Saint-Germain FC (H) 4-3
13.03 v Milan AC (A) 1-1
Thursday March 15th 2001
MATTHEWS SET FOR ASHTON GATE
by Chris Bargh
LEEDS striker Lee Matthew's is poised to join Bristol City in a deal worth £150,000 and snub Grimsby Town.
Bristol City boss Danny Wilson has swooped to pinch the 22 year old, who was ready to join the Mariners in a £25,000 move to Blundell Park.
But Wilson has tabled a late hour offer and Matthews has travelled to Ashton Gate. If he passes a medical, and can agree personal terms he will become a Robin.
Matthews, whose contract at Elland Road expires in the summer, was thought to be keen to move to Grimsby because it is closer to his Middlesbrough homeland, but, the offer from Bristol City was too hard to resist.
The 6'2" frontman made his United debut as a substitute at Crystal Palace, two weeks after his 19th birthday, in January 1998, but a series of injuries during the 1998/99 campaign, meant Lee had no opportunities to join the O'Leary revolution at Elland Road, which saw the emergence of so many of his former youth team colleagues.
Further injury problems have hampered Lee's progress under David O'Leary and the youngster was loaned out to Gillingham towards the end of the 1999/2000 season.
With no way into the first team at Elland Road, it seems now is the right time for Lee to move on. We wish him well.
Wednesday March 14th 2001
UNITED DENIED AT THE DEATH
UNITED rested several key players but still ended their Champions League group with a 3-3 draw against Lazio at Elland Road with goals by Lee Bowyer, Jason Wilcox and Mark Viduka, and Sinsa Mihajlovic grabbing a last gasp equaliser for the Italians.
The Yugoslav defender blasted in a 90th minute free-kick to earn Lazio a point, which most in Yorkshire will feel was undeserved
Leeds fans may have feared the worst when they saw the team sheet before kick-off, but United again showed fighting spirit to twice come from behind to go so near to a magnificent double over the Italian aristocrats.
That they did with largely a second string midfield, and with one or two players coming back from injury or suspension, spoke volumes for what David O'Leary is building at Elland Road and Friday's draw is now waited for with great anticipation.
Nothing to play for except pride was the message Lazio boss Dino Zoff told his under strength Lazio side, but for United the final Champions League Group D fixture was another chance to prove that their quarter-final place is no fluke.
That said Leeds boss David O'Leary fielded a made several changes to his side, bringing in Paul Robinson, Alan Maybury, Jason Wilcox and Jacob Burns, and recalling Gary Kelly after injury and Danny Mills following a one match suspension.
There was no place, even on the bench, for Rio Ferdinand and Alan Smith, while Eirik Bakke was suffering from a thigh strain.
Lazio, with one eye on the weekend's Serie A clash against Juventus, also proved their strength in depth, leaving Marcelo Salas and Hernan Crespo out.
For Republic of Ireland international Maybury it was his first start under David O'Leary, his last game being against West Ham in 1998, the night Leeds' plane was forced to crash land on the return home.
A low key start to the game, with Robinson saving a low drive by Nedved and Wilcox's cross from the right cut out by Marchegiani, was greeted with the news that Arsenal's defeat at Bayern Munich meant United could face a trip back to the Olympic Stadium where their adventure started back in August against TSV 1860, or a trip to Spain to play Valencia or Deportivo La Coruna.
Kewell, who looked to inspire Leeds early on, flashed a drive past a post and then tricked Colonnese into a late challenge which brought a yellow card for the Italian from referee Konrad Plautz.
But Lazio showed the greater urgency and were rewarded on 21 minutes when Nedved's cross from the right found Ravenelli in space and the former 'Boro striker made no mistake with a firm header from five yards out.
Fired into action United responded in fine style seven minutes later. Kewell's persistence down the right paid off when he headed a rebound from his own cross into the path of Lee Bowyer. The Leeds midfielder showed his liking for scoring in this competition with a neat right foot finish that curled over Marchegiani into the far corner.
Leeds' joy was short-lived when they fell behind again a minute later. Dominic Matteo was adjudged rather harshly by the Austrian official to have fouled Ravanelli inside the area and Mihajlovic sent Robinson the wrong way from the spot.
Bowyer went close to grabbing another equaliser and his second of the night when he powered in a header from Ian Harte's corner, but Marchegiani saved right on the line, but two minutes before half-time United did get back on level terms.
Another inswinging corner from Harte fell kindly at the far post for Wilcox to smash the ball first time low into the net - his first goal of the season.
Leeds went on the attack after the restart, Wilcox seeing his powerful drive deflected over the bar and Kewell' curled a shot over from the edge of the area after neat build up play involving Mark Viduka.
United still poured forward and Bowyer was unlucky he couldn't add the finish to a fine cross from the right by Maybury.
Leeds got their just reward just past the hour mark when they won a free kick out on the right, Ian Harte whipped in a vicious delivery and Mark Viduka got in front of his marker to power in a header past Marchegiani - his third successive goal in the Champions League and his fourth strike in a row with his head.
With Tony Hackworth sent on immediately for the Aussie striker it was United's other star from Down Under, Harry Kewell, who twice went close to extending the lead.
Marchegiani had to make two good saves, one from a downward header and the other from a 25 yard low drive which looked to be creeping inside the right post.
His opposite number Paul Robinson,a virtual spectator during the second period, also pulled off a brilliant stop to deny Mihajlovic, after the Yugoslav drove in a 20 yard free-kick.
Lazio substitute Marcelo Salas hot a post late on and the rebound was gratefully accepted by Robinson, but it looked to be all academic until Mihajlovic's late strike.
Still United had showed again their growing European pedigree and rightfully took their place in the last eight.
Wednesday March 14th 2001
WHITES EYE LAZIO DOUBLE
by Chris Bargh
DAVID O'LEARY is insisting his Leeds players will need no motivating when they face Italian giants Lazio in the last Champions League group game at Elland Road tonight.
Despite neither side having anything to play for, with United through as runners up to Real Madrid and Lazio confirmed as having no further interest in the competition, the Leeds squad are keen to end the group campaign on a high.
Also at stake is their proud record of never having lost to an Italian club at Elland Road, with only Juventus having scored at Leeds and that was 30 years ago.
Dino Zoff's side, who are due to face Juventus FC at home this coming Sunday - a game they must win if they are to have any hope of overhauling their great rivals AS Roma in Serie A - have left nine players back in Rome.
But Leeds well remember their famous victory over Lazio in Rome which put them in such a strong position to qualify for the quarter-finals and now they are keen to the double over the Italians.
Back-to-back victories over RSC Anderlecht made the last eight a reality, although the hero that December day in Rome and since, Alan Smith, may not be risked at Elland Road since he is one booking away from a suspension, as is Norwegian midfielder Eirik Bakke.
"My players will not need any motivation to want to win this game," said David O'Leary. "We want to win every game and to finish on a high in our group in front of our own fans.
"I don't know how Lazio will approach the game, or what side they will select, but I do not have many options as we are still a depleted squad.
"I am delighted that we can go into this game in a relaxed mood and I never expected qualification to be settled by this game.
"It is all credit to the players who have done brilliantly."
Leeds defender Ian Harte echoed the mood in the squad when he said: "The game is being described as a nothing game because we've already qualified and Lazio cannot possibly do so.
"But we don't see it quite like that. We don't want to go out there in front of our own fans and lose. We're professionals and we want to put on a show. They’re a big-name club and we've already beaten them. Now we want to complete the double.
"We’ve had a good sequence of results over the past few weeks and, though we lost to Real Madrid last week, we played well enough to have taken something from the game. It's important for us to keep a good run going in the build-up to the quarter-finals."
Lazio are likely to include Fabrizio Ravanelli, the former Middlesbrough FC striker as partner to Claudio Lopez, in attack. That will leave a multi-million pound striker duo, Marcello Salas and Hernan Crespo on the bench.
Back in Rome are Alessandro Nesta, Diego Simeone, Angelo Peruzzi, Dino Baggio, Guerino Gottardi, Simone Inzaghi, Juan Veron and Giuseppe Favalli.
For United Danny Mills returns from suspension and will probably take the place of the injured Lucas Radebe at the heart of defence, alongside Dominic Matteo,could switch from his usual position on the left.
Lee Bowyer is also likely to come back into the side having missed the trip to Madrid last week and 21 year old keeper Paul Robinson could get the nod ahead of England international Nigel Martyn.
So the final curtain comes down on the group stages of this season's Champions League with Leeds comfortably in the last eight and waiting to see who comes out of the hat in Friday's draw.
Who would have believed that back in August - certainly not one Mr David O'Leary.
Leeds: (possible) Robinson, Mills, Ferdinand, Matteo, Harte, Bowyer, Batty, Dacourt, Kewell, Smith, Viduka.
Lazio: (probable) Marchegiani; Colonnese, Couto, Mihajlovic, Pesaresi; Lombardo, Stankovic, Berrettoni, Nedved; Lopez, Ravanelli.
Ref: Konrad Plautz - Austria
Wednesday March 14th 2001
Smith hoping to start
The prospect of Alan Smith and Eirik Bakke being dropped by David O'Leary on Wednesday night to avoid them picking up bookings has surfaced.
If either player were booked in what is really a meaningless friendly then they would miss the first leg of the quarter-final. There were many observers who expected the pair to 'accidently' pick up yellow cards in the match at Real Madrid in order to miss Wednesday's game. That didn't happen, although it did to Figo, and now both of them are walking the disciplinary tightrope. Bakke is unlikely to play anyway with Lee Bowyer available along with the rest of the midfield but Alan Smith and Mark Viduka have been nothing less than sensational as a European partnership and Smith is keen for it to continue. He said: "I'm hoping to play. Team selection is up to the gaffer of course and although we are already through and Lazio have missed out, playing against major European club sides is still a big attraction to me." The players really enjoy the buzz of Europe and we would love to finish off this group stage with a good showing and a victory against Lazio."
Tuesday March 13th 2001
Elland Road handed England-Italy clash
Leeds United's Elland Road stadium has been selected to host England's friendly with Italy, which is scheduled for Wednesday, March 27 2002.
The FA have awarded Leeds the match as the rebuilding work at Wembley continues.
Elland Road club secretary Ian Silvester said: "It's a great honour for the club.
"Obviously everyone involved with the club is absolutely delighted that our ground has been chosen to host such an attractive game.
"The game will give the people of Yorkshire the chance to see the national team playing on their own doorstep.
"And we may well have two or three or even more Leeds United players involved – and that would be an added bonus for the fans
"We are delighted to be awarded this game and we are planning already, even though it is a long time in the future," he told the club's official site.
Tuesday March 13th 2001
Striker set to go
Lennie Lawrence has asked to take striker Lee Mathews on a free transfer following his trial at Grimsby Town.
Lennie said: "He is a young lad who wants to learn and improve he is a mobile centre forward who has a nice turn of pace for a big lad. He is not quite match fit, he's a bit overweight because he hasn't played many games but we will get him there. "He will be a good long term investment for us and won't come outside our wage scale so we are keen to take him." Leeds have yet to agree but it's thought they won't stand in Mathews way. As the transfer deadline approaches all sorts of smaller deals get done both in and out and there maybe some very similar deals in the pipeline. Meanwhile Mark Kerr from Falkirk is on a weeks trial at the club after similar spells in Ipswich.
Monday March 12th 2001
UNITED IN THE DARK OVER WILCOX LINK
by Chris Bargh
A report that Leicester City are set to make a move for United midfielder Jason Wilcox has been dismissed by Leeds Chairman Peter Ridsdale.
Speculation cropped up over the weekend that Wilcox was set to join former Leeds star Matthew Jones at Filbert Street, but Ridsdale insisted on Monday that no approach had been made for the former Blackburn winger and that the England international was going nowhere.
"I do not know anything about any Leicester City link for Jason Wilcox. It is news to me," Ridsdale said.
"These stories have a habit of going around from time to time and they are often based on nothing at all.
"I have had no contact with Leicester City regarding the availability of players and do not anticipate a call from them or anyone else for that matter."
Wilcox has had a stop start season through injury and has made just eight full first team appearances.
Saturday March 10th 2001
UEFA BAN RAUL
by Chris Bargh
REAL Madrid striker Raul has been banned by UEFA for one match and also fined almost £8,000 for his 'handball' goal against Leeds.
The Spanish international will miss next Wednesday's final Group B match against Anderlecht.
UEFA charged Raul of 'unsporting behaviour' for punching the ball past Leeds keeper Nigel Martyn for Real's first goal in United's 3-2 defeat at the Bernabeu on Tuesday night.
Raul protested his innocence after the match, saying: "There is no way that I touched the ball with my hand.
"It was a rapid move, I jumped up strongly with a Leeds defender and when I saw the ball, it was already in the net.
"I don't know what I hit the ball with, but it was not with my hand."
UEFA chief executive Gerhard Aigner said: "The action by Raul when he scored his team's first goal with his hand is against the fundamental principles of Fair Play.
"So the initiative by the UEFA Control and Disciplinary Body is welcome."
UEFA said they had been lenient with the 23-year-old, because "Raul is one of the fairest players in football with an exemplary record of having received only two yellow cards in over 100 international matches for club and country.
"However, such an act, which apart from the negative consequences for the opposing team, goes against the principles of Fair Play and cannot remain unpunished".
An appeal can be launched, provided it is received by midnight on Monday.
UEFA have decided not to punish Luis Figo for allegedly earning a yellow card on purpose during the same game.
Friday March 9th 2001
SMITH SET FOR CASH BOOST
by Chris Bargh
CONTRARY to Friday's tabloid reports, contract extension negotiations between United and striker Alan Smith are now almost formalised, with Leeds Chairman Peter Ridsdale confident that the 20 year old star will sign a new five year deal.
Speculation that talks between Club and player had broken down is well wide of the mark as Ridsdale answered reports that Smith was stalling on putting pen to paper.
But the the LUFC Official website can confirm that Smith, who still has three years yet to run on his present contract, is poised to sign a new improved five year contract extension which will a include a cash bonus spread over four years of that contract.
"Firstly to correct what has been reported, it is illegal to backdate contracts," Peter told www.lufc.co.uk.
"There is no dispute at all over Alan's proposed new contract. We had our last talks with Michael Kennedy, Alan's representative, two weeks ago and we believe we have made an offer which is acceptable to both Alan and the Club.
"Alan is very happy at Leeds and is going nowhere. Despite him having years to run on his present contract, we recognise what he has done and how much he has improved and want to reward him accordingly.
"I don't envisage any problems and I expect the offer to be accepted and signed very soon."
Smith's new contract will be just reward for an impressive season, particularly in the Champions League.
The 20 year old has scored six goals in Europe and six in Premiership putting him second in the goalscoring charts behind Mark Viduka, who now has 17 strikes in his first season at Elland Road.
Thursday March 8th 2001
Ticket details for Quarter Finals
Season Ticket Holders
Season ticket holders will receive a letter in the next few days, and have until 22nd March to apply for their tickets.
Strikers Members
Tickets will be on sale from 26th March to 28th March
General Sale
General Sale for the above fixture will be extremely limited due to the requirements of Season Ticket Holders and/or Strikers Members. If any tickets remain they will be allocated via a postal ballot.
Postal applications received prior to 23rd March 2001 will be included in the ballot. Those who are successful in obtaining tickets will receive them at least 24 hours before the home game. Unsuccessful applicants will not be notified. Please include your name, address and contact telephone number on your application.
Ticket requests will be limited to 2 per application or 1 Family package (2 adults and 2 juniors under 16)
Seats may be sold as single seats and may have a restricted view.
Multiple applications will be rejected.
All tickets are subject to availability.
Tickets are priced at Adults £25, Concessions £17, Family Package £67.
IMPORTANT NOTICE IN RESPECT OF THE TICKET DISTRIBUTION FOR THE UEFA CHAMPIONS LEAGUE QUARTER FINAL AWAY FIXTURE.
Whilst we do not, at this stage, know who we play in the Quarter Final and ticket allocation available to Leeds United supporters will be administered on the following basis.
First Priority - To Supporters who have attended 4 previous UEFA Champions League away fixtures this season 2000/2001.
Second Priority - To supporters who have attended 3 previous UEFA Champions League away fixtures this season 2000/2001.
Third Priority - To Supporters who have attended 2 previous UEFA Champions League away fixtures this season 2000/2001.
Fourth Priority - - To supporters who have attended 1 previous UEFA Champions League away fixtures this season 2000/2001.
If any tickets remain after these allocations have been made they will be offered for general sale, please check on this website for details.
Wednesday March 7th 2001
RAUL FACES UEFA CHARGE
UEFA have confirmed that they will instigate disciplinary action against Real Madrid striker Raul following his infamous 'goal' against Leeds in last night's Champions League clash.
Raul was clearly seen to knock the ball into the net with his hand in the seventh minute, cancelling out Alan Smith's opener a minute earlier, but referee Woljic missed the incident and allowed the goal to stand, something he later apologised to the Leeds camp for.
A Uefa spokesman confirmed that the Spanish international had fallen foul of the disciplinary panel rules, and that they had the power to fine Raul, but not suspend him for use of the arm.
"The disciplinary committee have confirmed they have opened the case against him and action will be taken."
"I don't think the disciplinary committee will ban Raul for the use of his hand but a fine may be applied.
"It is now a case of waiting to see what verdict the disciplinary panel will come to."
United boss David O'Leary refused to allow the incident to sour his mood, and was instead grateful to the referee for acknowledging his mistake.
"The one thing I admire about the referee - you don't get it much and I've never come across it - is that he asked to come into the dressing room," said O'Leary.
"He did so and apologised to every player about the first goal. He said he didn't see it, but he has seen it now, although if he didn't see it then he can't give it.
"But he has apologised and I think that took a big man and a brave man to come in and fair play to him, particularly as we didn't deserve to lose this game."
Wednesday March 7th 2001
Hackworth cleared of attack
Leeds United's reserve-team striker Tony Hackworth has been cleared of any involvement in an attack on an Asian student in Leeds city centre.
The 20-year-old left Hull Crown Court in the clear when he was formally found not guilty of causing grievous bodily harm with intent and affray.
Hackworth had always denied being a part of a group of men - including Leeds United duo Jonathon Woodgate and Lee Bowyer - who are alleged to have attacked student Nafraz Najeib in the Mill Hill area of Leeds centre in January last year.
Wednesday March 7th 2001
Man Utd 'fall out' continues
The 'fall out' over Saturday's controversial draw between Leeds and Manchester United on Saturday shows little side of abating.
Following the Chief's earlier verbal attack, when he hinted that officials were not following the same rule book with Man U compared to other teams, Sir Alex Ferguson has retaliated in kind.
He said, "I think it's important to remind people of certain factors, certainly in terms of penalty kicks", pointing out that Leeds have been given the most spot-kicks in the premiership. It's certainly news to me - but I'll take fergie's word for it...
Tuesday March 6th 2001
CRUEL DEFEAT IN MADRID
As on Saturday, luck deserted us in Spain tonight, with Real Madrid beating us 3-2 to guarantee their position as group winners.
We made a great start, with Alan Smith continuing his blistering European form: coolly finishing in the sixth minute, following a graet pass from Viduka. Smithy looked marginally offside but the linesman didn't raise his flag...this time ;-)
If we had a slight amount of luck going our way on that occasion, it certainly deserted us for the rest of the half. Just a minute after our opener, Raul equalised for the home side. However, he clearly fisted the ball into the net - if anything, even more blatantly that Maradonna's infamous "Hand of God".
Then, following a first half where we had been more than a match for the Spaniards, things got worse just before half time. On 41 minutes, Figo hit what looked more like a cross into the box from distance. Unfortunately, though, it took a wicked deflection off the pitch, completely fooling Martyn in goal - who, otherwise, would have had it covered.
Still, we refused to lie down and die. Viduka levelled again in th 54th minute, powerfully heading home a Harte corner and for a time, it looke like we might pierce Madrid's impressive home record.
Sadly, it wasn't to be. Madrid were to have the last laugh. This time, Figo turned provider for Raul to head home, legitimately this time, for what proved to be the winning goal.
Tuesday March 6th 2001
"PRIDE AT STAKE" - O'LEARY
by Chris Bargh
LEEDS boss David O'Leary will remind his United side that pride is at stake when they face current champions of Europe Real Madrid in the Bernabeu on Tuesday night.
United's manager insists that his team are in Madrid to win, regardless that the result means nothing to Leeds' secure quarter-final berth.
"We will go into the game nice and relaxed and it's lovely to know that we have already qualified," said O'Leary.
"This will be a good experience for me and the players, but it is a game we want to win, whether we can or not is another matter.
"We have our pride and we want to beat the best which is what we will try and do.
"I love Real Madrid. they are a quality attacking team and I fancy them to win the Champions League, although Manchester United will not be far away.
"But we will try and spoil things. I'd love to do that."
Meanwhile, O'Leary has urged England U-21 boss Howard Wilkinson to give up on picking United striker Alan Smith for international duty at that level.
O'Leary feels that his 20 year old star, who will start against Real Madrid in the absence of cup tied Robbie Keane, should be promoted to the full squad or left out completely.
The United boss said: "You won't get a great deal out of Alan Smith by picking him for the U-21's.
"He needs to be there with the big boys now. That is what inspires him and his learning curve is over at U-21 level.
"They can't achieve any more by picking him, he wants to be in there with the Maldinis of this world testing himself against the best."
Smith will be gunning for another Champions League away goal after scoring twice in United's magnificent 4-1 win at Anderlecht two weeks ago and in the equally impressive 1-0 victory against Lazio in the Stadio Olimpico.
The other quandary for O'Leary is whether to recall Gary Kelly at right back for the suspended Danny Mills.
Kelly has yet to taste action following a five week lay off after a hernia operation, but the Republic of Ireland international may be asked to return in the Bernabeu.
Eirik Bakke is likely to replace Lee Bowyer in midfield and Harry Kewell could get his first start since Boxing Day.
Danny Mills has also suffered a further suspension blow following his fifth red card at the weekend.
He will miss the trip to his former club Charlton Athletic on March 17
Monday March 5th 2001
"IT'LL ALWAYS BE ELLAND ROAD TO ME" SAYS RIDSDALE
by Chris Bargh
UNITED Chairman Peter Ridsdale today insisted that Elland Road would always be Elland Road as he confirmed that the Club were actively seeking sponsors for the stadium.
Leeds have confirmed that they have appointed London agency Sportsworld to look into the viability of securing sponsorship both for their new West Stand and for their entire stadium.
Although no bids have yet been received, such a move may involve the Elland Road stadium bearing the name of a sponsor.
Such a deal could net the Club millions of pounds, but Ridsdale is well aware of making sure Leeds supporters are fully behind any sponsorship involving any name change.
A lifelong Leeds fans, Ridsdale said: "Elland Road will always be Elland Road to me.
"We are looking for sponsorship and naming rights for various parts of the ground. If we develop the West Stand we will be looking for sponsorship and naming rights for that.
"Whether or not the ground has somebody else's name attached depends on the sort of money people are looking at.
"I would remind everyone that a club needs funds to compete at the top level and we have demonstrated that by providing the funds to strengthen the squad, but that needs to continue.
"If we ever get down to naming rights it will only be if everything is right and I believe it is right for the supporters."
In Madrid, ahead of the clash against Real, Peter Ridsdale also spoke of the Club's magnificent achievement of qualifying for the Champions League last eight at the first attempt.
"We've qualified already so the pressure is off," said Ridsdale. "It is a wonderful achievement and very special for us to have got so far.
"When the draw was made for the second stage we got what we wanted in quality teams like Real Madrid, Lazio and Anderlecht.
"We've now got to pinch ourselves to think there is another draw coming for the quarter-finals."
Monday March 5th 2001
Leeds jet off for Real test of character
Leeds have set off to face Real Madrid with the boss tipping the hosts to win the trophy - but Lucas Radebe wants a Leeds-Manchester United final.
David O'Leary has tipped the European champions to win the group and then defend their crown.
But he is relishing the experience and believes his players will benefit a great deal from playing in the magnificent Bernabeu stadium.
O'Leary said: "We want to gain experience against a team that I'm sure will win the Champions League. None of my players have been to the Bernabeu so it will be a fantastic experience for them.
"Real were applauded off the pitch at Elland Road when they beat us which tells you a lot about their quality. We are going there with a depleted squad and I'm sure Real will win the group anyway, let's not kid anybody about that, although I would love to be proved wrong."
Lucas Radebe would like to see Leeds play Manchester United in the final of the Champions League, and said: "I think a Leeds-Manchester United final would not only be a magnificent event for the two clubs, it would also capture the imagination of football fans throughout Europe and beyond.
"I know the authorities would probably prefer the finalists to be from different countries but I believe there would be no trouble filling the San Siro if two English teams were involved."
Danny Mills, who will miss the game through suspension, said: "I'm disappointed that I won't be able to play in Madrid because I'm suspended. The result out there doesn't really matter but we will want to put in a good performance.
"We can beat Madrid and we can finish top of the group. It would be nice to avoid Manchester United and Arsenal until the final. It's nice to go to these big clubs in Europe and play teams we don't meet often.
"I would have loved to have played in the Bernabeu but it is not to be - at least not this season."
Stephen McPhail has travelled with the squad to Spain, along with the club physio who will give the injured young midfielder extra treatment.
Monday March 5th 2001
RADEBE ACCUSES REFS OF BIAS
Leeds captain Lucas Radebe has blasted Premiership referees for showing bias towards champions Manchester United.
The South African international insists his side were denied a deserved victory when referee Graham Barber controversially ruled out Wes Brown's late own goal after his assistant flagged for offside.
Barber also incensed the Elland Road supporters when he refused to send-off French keeper Fabien Barthez for aiming a petulant kick at Ian Harte in first-half injury-time during the 1-1 draw.
"Maybe it is a case of one rule for United and one rule for everyone else," he said.
"Officials might be a little bit intimidated by them because of what they have achieved.
"They have built up a reputation - they are bigger than referees and officials find that hard to deal with."
To add insult to injury, Barthez saved Harte's penalty and Sir Alex Ferguson's side held on for a point.
Sunday March 4th 2001
O'Leary's ref fury
David O'Leary has slammed referee Graham Barber for failing to dismiss Fabien Barthez for kicking Ian Harte in Saturday's bad-tempered clash.
The whistler - who has yet to send off a player this season - pointed to the penalty spot after the eccentric Frenchman had kicked out at Ian Harte in an off-the-ball incident. However, despite the fact that Barthez's conduct was clearly violent, Barber chose not to send him off and the resultant penalty was saved - by Barthez himself.
This prompted O'Leary to say: "Once the ref's awarded a penalty and seen the player kick out, I don't know the keeper can stay on the pitch to save it."
The penalty incident was just one flashpoint in a tempestuous match between these great rivals.
Saturday March 3rd 2001
CHAMPIONS HANG ON IN LATE LEEDS ONSLAUGHT
Leeds 1-1 Manchester Utd
Viduka 84 Chadwick 64
FA Carling Premiership
Dean Gripton reports
Mark Viduka's 85th minute goal earned a deserved draw for Leeds against Manchester United, who demonstrated fine defensive qualities to take another step towards their seventh title in nine years.
It was a game that failed to live up to pre-match expectations, but there was enough drama in the final six minutes to what the appetite. Perhaps the early signs were on the team sheets when Harry Kewell and last week's hat-trick hero Dwight Yorke were left on the benches.
Leeds had dominated possession but were trailing to Luke Chadwick's 64th minute goal, when Mark Viduka superbly headed home after a fine right-wing break from Danny Mills to equalise.
Finally French goalkeeper Fabien Barthez had been beaten. The Manchester United man had, sometimes brilliantly, sometimes fortuitously, kept everything that Leeds could throw at him out.
Leeds had their just reward for their second-half display, and were denied the ultimate reward in stoppage-time. Lee Bowyer escaped down the right after a fine pass from the excellent Olivier Dacourt, and crossed to Viduka. Wes Brown, who had netted past Barthez against Valencia in the last minute of the Champions League game, intercepted the low pass and perfectly finished into the corner.
But the assistant referee flagged, much to Leeds' disgust. Manager David O'Leary was forthright afterwards, saying: "To me it is a goal. Brown knows he has scored an own goal and they do not even look for the linesman."
It was the second contentious decision made by a referee's assistant during the game, but Leeds passed up their chance to to profit from the first.
That was right on half-time, when Barthez spilled a left-wing cross under pressure form Ian Harte, and as Jaap Stam cleared and the players moved out, Barthez foolishly kicked out at the Leeds defender. Lucky not to be sent off, the goalkeeper stayed on to push Harte's penalty around the post.
Chadwick's second Premiership strike looked as if it would complete a fine week for Manchester United. It was a fine example of the archetypal 'smash 'n' grab' from the champions, who had failed to test England's midweek goalkeeping hero Nigel Martyn, before Paul Scholes broke through the middle.
Scholes' shot was low, Martyn parried and second-half sub Chadwick, who added zip to the