Here are the latest Leeds United evening headlines on Saturday, 11 June 2022.
Kewell lands new job
Former Leeds United winger Harry Kewell has landed a new role at Celtic as part of their backroom staff. Kewell will be working alongside fellow countryman Ange Postecoglu and son of former Leeds legend Gordon Strachan, Gavin, at Parkhead, who guided them to the Scottish Premier League title last season.
Kewell has struggled to make an impact in full time management since hanging up his boots, failing in spells at Crawley Town, Oldham Athletic, Notts County and Barnet. This is Kewell’s first job since his sacking from Barnet in September 2021, where he won none of just seven matches in charge.
Woodgate on Speed
The world of British football was shocked when Leeds United legend, Gary Speed took his own life in November 2011. Speed was manager of the Welsh national team at the time and has since been credited with beginning the turnaround of their fortunes which has since seen them qualify for three tournaments, including this year's World Cup.
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However, Speed was suffering from mental health problems which many - even his closest friends - were unaware of. Former Leeds United defender and teammate of Speed's at Newcastle United, Jonathan Woodgate has spoken of his shock at hearing the 'devastating' news, as well as explaining his sadness that his former teammate didn't feel he could speak to those friends. Speaking to Under the Surface podcast, Woodgate said:
"Gary was an incredible person, he’d do anything for you. He’d pick up the phone and ring you out of the blue. I used to keep in contact with him on the phone, and then for that to happen, and it was out of nowhere. I was devastated. I think Newcastle were playing that day and I was watching Shay Given and Craig Bellamy both crying, and it was a real sad time.”
Full retained lists
The transfer window is now open and Leeds United look set for a busy period of potential incomings and outgoings. The Whites have already made two signings in Brenden Aaronson and Rasmus Kristensen who both signed from Red Bull Salzburg.
Not strengthening in January of last season significantly hindered Leeds who found themselves with a threadbare squad due to injuries. New faces with added quality are a must for Leeds, especially when they could lose both Raphinha and Kalvin Phillips this summer.
They must continue to strengthen in all areas in order to avoid another relegation scrap next season. One way they could do this is by signing a potential free agent or two to provide some quality depth. While the big names like Paul Pogba and Jesse Lingard are out of reach, a smart signing like Fabian Delph, who started out his professional career at Elland Road could really improve Leeds' squad.
Click here to see the full list of every player to be released in the Premier League.
