Woodgate says their friendship is over

Duberry admitted his decision to take the stand had "not been easy at all".

And life at Leeds may not be easy for Duberry either.

All successful sides rely on a rock solid team spirit which they can call on when times are bad.

It is certainly a feature of the current Leeds side, but that could be compromised by one player giving evidence against a team-mate.

If players feel they cannot trust Duberry, he may find himself marginalised at Elland Road.

Woodgate confirmed in the witness box that their friendship is now over, but it is arguable that Duberry has shown more courage in speaking out against his best friend at the club than keeping quiet.

Fringe player

And while some may question his loyalty in this case, Terence Byrne, physiotherapist at Duberry's former club Chelsea, described him as "someone you can depend upon".

Like everyone else involved, Duberry will hope that he can put it all behind him.

But, at present, he remains a fringe player, having made only a handful of appearances in his two years at the club.

So manager David O'Leary may decide he is better off without Duberry if he feels his presence will disrupt the day-to-day running of the club.

On the other hand, if Woodgate finds himself frozen out, it will be to Duberry's benefit as they play in the same position.