The Yorkshire side have exceeded all expectations with their efforts on the European stage this season and host the might of Valencia in the semi-final first leg on Wednesday.

"When you look at the four teams left in the Champions League, you have to say that we are the weakest," said Harte.

"If you take into account the proven quality of Real Madrid, Bayern Munich and Valencia, they have greater experience at the top level of European competition than we have.

"Teams like these are consistent performers at the top level of club football. They seem to do it in Europe year in and year out and have to be admired for that.

"It's our aim to be as consistent as they are."

Leeds have surprised many in this season's Champions League, having defeated teams such Lazio, AC Milan, Anderlecht and Spanish champions Deportivo la Coruna.

Manager David O'Leary is adamant that his young team deserve their place in the last four of Europe's most prestigious competition.

"Even if we went out to Valencia, we can still hold our heads high and say we went the furthest of all the premier league sides," he said.

"And it has not been through luck either, because we have beaten a lot of very good teams to get where we are."