The #LUFC Breakfast Debate (Thursday 24th April) - 49ers have reservations over Farke
Good Morning. It's Thursday 24th April, and here are the latest headlines from Elland Road...
49ers have reservations over Farke
The Elland Road hierarchy harbour 'significant reservations' over Daniel Farke's suitability in the top flight, according the Daily Mail – a publication that is seen as being the mouth piece for 49ers Enterprises. In truth, it comes as no surprise, even a Millwall fan could have told us that; but the timing still leaves a lot to be desired! The article is seen by many as a way of telling Daniel Farke that his tenure at Elland Road will be shortly coming to an end!
The speculation comes at a highly sensitive time, just days after Farke delivered the 49ers' primary objective: getting the club back into the Premier League. While no final decision has reportedly been made, the club have refused to comment on the matter, fueling rumours that he may even return to Norwich City, the club where he built his reputation.
Farke is to Norwich what Bielsa is to Leeds. The hierarchy at Carrow Road have stalled in appointing Russell Martin, possibly waiting to see whether Farke becomes available? Meanwhile, Bookies have already made a shortlist of who will be the next Manager at Elland Road:-
Kjetil Knutsen 2/1
Edin Terzić 4/1
Sean Dyche 4/1
Liam Rosenior 10/1
Will Still 12/1
Marcelo Bielsa 16/1
Ambitious Elland Road expansion gets Council green light
Plans to significantly increase Elland Road's capacity have moved forward following key approvals from Leeds City Council. The proposals aim to boost the stadium's seating to 56,500, a move that aligns with the club's ambitions and recent return to the top flight.
At a meeting of Leeds City Council's executive board yesterday, two crucial recommendations were approved, clearing the path for potential expansion. Firstly, the council agreed to negotiate the sale of council-owned land located behind the stadium's Don Revie and John Charles stands directly to the club. This land is essential for the planned expansion. The club would theoretically acquire this land at a price determined by an independent valuation reflecting market rates.
Secondly, the council also agreed to negotiate and enter into a memorandum of understanding (MoU) with the Lowy Family Group (LFG), United's development partner. This non-binding agreement signifies a collaborative approach between the council and LFG to work together on a broader regeneration strategy for council-owned land surrounding Elland Road. This regeneration effort is set to encompass significant parcels of land, including the park and ride adjacent to Fullerton Park, Lowfields Road, and the car parks situated on either side of Wesley Street.
These approvals are vital steps in turning the expansion vision into reality. Council documents indicate that the detailed legal agreements for the sale of land are expected to be completed before any work potentially begins on council land in the 2025 calendar year. The detailed legal agreement for the MoU with LFG is planned for completion later in spring 2025.
Councillor James Lewis, leader of Leeds City Council, highlighted the scale of the opportunity, stating:-
The regeneration of the Elland Road area represents one of the city’s most exciting development opportunities for a generation, which would revitalise a huge area of Leeds and potentially bring hundreds of millions of pounds into our local economy. Leeds United are a Premier League side in a Premier League city and today is a key moment in moving towards a better, brighter future for the club, the fans and sport in Leeds.
Let's get this party started
Plans are in motion for a promotion parade in Leeds. Public notices suggest the event is scheduled for Monday, May 5, just two days after the final game of the season. While specifics are being finalised, the parade is planned as a celebration of the promotion, regardless of whether the club finishes first or second.