Kewell admires Terry Venables Kewell close to Leeds deal

The timing of Kewell's praise for Venables may embarrass Leeds chairman Peter Ridsdale, who dismissed the former England coach after a troubled season.

Kewell, who also played for Australia under Venables, made his comments praising Venables in the club's official magazine.

He said: "This season Terry has done wonders for me. He picked up my game because I was going through a bad patch.

"He is the best manager for me so far, so I cannot complain."

Player profile: Harry Kewell

Kewell has opened talks with Leeds on a new �48,000-a-week contract.

And he admits he will be indebted to Venables for switching him from a wide role into the centre.

He said: "Ever since Terry has known me he has always played me up front.

"I'm just grateful he gave me the opportunity. I always thought I could do a job in that position and he gave me licence to do it."

New Leeds caretaker boss Peter Reid wants to keep Kewell in the danger areas.

He said: "I don't want Harry stuck on the left. I want him getting into dangerous areas and running off people like Ryan Giggs does for Manchester United."