Leeds United legend Norman Hunter tells World Football's Alan Green the future is bleaker than ever at Elland Road...

Norman Hunter played for Leeds between 1961 and 1976, picking up two league championships, an FA Cup, a league cup and two Fairs Cups during the most successful period of the club's history.

I asked him if he felt the city of Leeds deserved better than the current regime were offering.

"I do" he said.

"The chairman has really pushed the boat out. We had Plan A, which involved us getting into the Champions League, but it looks like we didn't have a Plan B in case we didn't, and unfortunately it's gone that way".

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"Every fan wants to live a dream. I don't think we're the first club to do this and I don't think we'll be the last" he said.

"At the moment Newcastle are pushing the boat out a little trying to get into the Champions League, and if it doesn't happen then you have a problem.

"The directors have to do their sums and realise that there are only four places. I honestly don't know how we've got into this mess".

Manager Terry Venables was furious with the Leeds board for selling Jonathan Woodgate to Newcastle despite assurances this wouldn't happen, but Norman says they have to work together.

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"I think they have to get on with it and work it out the best they can" he said.

"I think deep down Terry knew he had unfinished business at Leeds, and I think he stayed for the players he's got now.

"The relationship will never be the same, but they have to work together for the rest of the season and then see what happens".

"I'm hoping and praying that we've got some kids coming through, because I don't think the money will be there to sign new players. I think it will take an awful lot of hard work to get back to where we were.

"No team can lose six of its best players and expect to get into the Champions League - it's going to be a long time before we get back there".