BBC Sport
Skip to main contentAccess keys helpA-Z index

[an error occurred while processing this directive]
| Help

---------------
---------------
CHOOSE A SPORT
 
RELATED BBC SITES
Last Updated: Sunday, 9 May, 2004, 10:14 GMT 11:14 UK
Krasner upbeat on future
New Leeds chairman Gerald Krasner
Leeds chairman Gerald Krasner is confident the club can bounce back to the top flight within a year despite having to sell their top players.

Debt-ridden Leeds' relegation from the Premiership was confirmed after they drew 3-3 with Charlton on Saturday.

"Leeds is a big city and can bounce back straight away," Krasner told the Independent on Sunday newspaper.

"Leeds fans are unbelievable, yet certain players have not pulled their weight in the community."

He added: "All that's going to change.

"There are five under-21 internationals and if we can find a few seasoned players who know what it's about we can mix them in with the academy players.

"We'll have a team capable of doing well in the First Division and coming back."

Leeds are likely to sell the likes of Alan Smith, Mark Viduka and Paul Robinson but are keen to hold onto young star James Milner.

Krasner, however, admits that a serious offer for 18-year-old midfielder Milner would have to be considered.

"It's very unfortunate Alan will be leaving," said Krasner.

"Smithy is the Mr Leeds of the current era. Maybe James Milner will be the new Mr Leeds United."

"But if somebody offered me silly money I'd seriously have to think about it, because the finances of Leeds United are more important than any one player."






E-mail services | Sport on mobiles/PDAs

MMIX

Back to top

Sport Homepage | Football | Cricket | Rugby Union | Rugby League | Tennis | Golf | Motorsport | Boxing | Athletics | Snooker | Horse Racing | Cycling | Disability sport | Olympics 2012 | Sport Relief | Other sport...

BBC Sport Academy >> | BBC News >> | BBC Weather >>
About the BBC | News sources | Privacy & Cookies Policy | Contact us
bannerwatch listenbbc sport