A Tale of One Divided City

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Kendrick Out with Broken Ankle

In a significant setback for Leeds City, starting goalkeeper Henry Kendrick has suffered a broken ankle following a mishap during a training session. The injury occurred after a challenging jump, leading to an unfortunate twist that has ruled Kendrick out of action for an extended period.

The club confirmed the news, expressing their disappointment at the injury to Kendrick, who has been a key figure in their successful campaign so far. The injury comes at a crucial stage in the season, with Leeds City leading the NCEL Premier Division by a considerable margin.

Leeds City manager David Turner addressed the situation, acknowledging the blow but expressing confidence in the team's ability to overcome challenges. "Losing Henry is tough for us; he's been exceptional between the posts. But injuries are part of the game, and we have to adapt. We have capable alternatives in Rogan Ravenhill and James Clarke, and we'll assess the goalkeeper position after seeing their performances," said Turner.

Rogan Ravenhill, a recent addition to the squad, and 16-year-old academy prospect James Clarke are expected to share goalkeeping duties until the January transfer window opens. The club will use this period to evaluate their options and make informed decisions about the goalkeeper position.

This unfortunate injury poses a new test for Leeds City, who have navigated various challenges with resilience and determination. The club and its supporters will rally behind the team as they strive to maintain their impressive form in Kendrick's absence and continue their pursuit of success in the NCEL Premier Division.

Jack

4 days

Jack

3 days

Leeds City Players Secure Loan Moves to Enhance Development

In a strategic move to provide valuable playing time and accelerate their development, several Leeds City players have secured loan moves to different clubs until the end of the season.

This decision reflects the club's commitment to nurturing young talents and ensuring that every player has the opportunity to gain valuable experience on the pitch.

Among those heading out on loan are four promising youth players who have shown potential within the Leeds City ranks:

Filip Huf: The young talent will be joining Nostell Miners Welfare, where he is expected to receive regular playing time to further his skills and contribute to Nostell's campaign.

Ronan McGinty: Heading to Cradley Town, McGinty aims to make the most of this loan spell, gaining valuable experience in a different footballing environment.

Oliver Sanusi: The talented midfielder is set to join Eaton Socon, providing him with an opportunity to showcase his abilities and contribute to Eaton Socon's objectives.

Joe Harrison: Harrison's loan move to West Bridgford presents an exciting chance for the young player to make an impact and develop his skills in a competitive setting.

In addition to the youth players, summer signing Brodie Litchfield will also be embarking on a loan journey. Litchfield, who joined Leeds City from NPL Premier Division side Basford United, will be joining Heacham. Despite limited playing time at Leeds City this season, this loan move offers Litchfield the chance to gain match fitness and showcase his abilities.

Leeds City remains committed to providing its players with the best opportunities for growth and development, and these loan moves align with the club's long-term vision of nurturing a pool of talented players for the future. The club wishes all the loaned players the best in their respective journeys and looks forward to welcoming them back with enhanced skills and experiences.

Jack

3 days

Jack

2 days

A Day in the Life of David Turner

Nestled in the heart of Leeds, where the rhythm of life beats to the pulse of football, stands a man whose life is intricately woven into the fabric of the beautiful game.

David Turner, the animated manager of Leeds City AFC, peels back the layers of his journey – a journey that began with a love affair with football, intertwined with Leeds United, and now steering the course of a club with a rich history and ambitious future.

In 1990, a pivotal year etched into the history books of Leeds United, David Turner took his first breath as his cherished club secured promotion from the Second Division. "Football was practically my birthright," he quips, the pride in his voice unmistakable.

Turner's father, Neil, served as the guiding force propelling young David into the realms of football fandom. "He took me to my first Leeds game in '96 against Chelsea. Brian Deane and Ian Rush etched their names into my heart that day and I was hooked. The ambience of Elland Road, the chants, the raw emotion – it was like a calling."

By the time the 1999-00 season unfolded, Turner had procured his own season ticket. "That season was pure magic. Third in the Premier League, the UEFA Cup run – it felt like living in a dream."

The zenith of Turner's fanhood was the unforgettable Champions League semi-final against Valencia in 2001. "Those nights at Elland Road were beyond words. Although we fell short, the experience left an indelible mark on me. It was during those nights that I understood football was more than a game; it was a part of my identity."

However, the dream transformed into a nightmare with the club's financial collapse in 2004. "The highs of Champions League football were replaced by the lows of relegations, point deductions, and the club teetering on the brink. It was heartbreaking."

As Turner matured, his passion for the game metamorphosed into a yearning to coach. "I started working in sales to pay the bills, but my true fulfillment came from coaching." His stint at Alwoodley FC, where he managed seven consecutive amateur league titles, laid the bedrock for his managerial aspirations.

Turner attributes his coaching philosophy to a triumvirate of mentors: "David O'Leary's belief in youth and local talent resonates with me. Simon Grayson taught me the significance of mentality. And then there's the maestro, Bielsa – his influence is omnipresent."

Now at the helm of Leeds City, Turner reflects on his journey. "The board's been fantastic, and the fan engagement is unlike anything I've experienced. It's a club on the rise, and I'm eager to take it to the very top. Why not aim to surpass the heights Leeds United achieved?"

As for the contentious RB Leeds takeover, Turner doesn't mince words. "It's a sore point. Leeds City is here to reclaim what's rightfully ours. We want to face them head-on, in our terms, and show the world the spirit of true Leeds football."

In the end, Turner's journey from the stands to the dugout is a testament to the unbreakable bond between a man and his club. With Leeds City in capable hands, the journey promises to be as thrilling as the game itself – an odyssey marked by love, passion, and an unwavering commitment to the beautiful game.

Jack

2 days

Leeds City extend Turner’s contract

In a move met with elation among Leeds City faithful, the club has officially extended the contract of their charismatic manager, David Turner, until June 2026.

The decision comes hot on the heels of the team's impressive run in the NCEL Premier Division, where they are not only leading but dominating with an air of invincibility.

The board's decision to extend Turner's contract by another year is a strategic move to ensure continuity and build on the successes witnessed under his guidance. Turner, known for his passionate approach and astute football acumen, has become the heartbeat of Leeds City's resurgence.

Beyond the numbers on the league table and the tactical brilliance displayed on the pitch, Turner has breathed new life into the club. His engaging rapport with fans, emphasis on youth development, and unwavering commitment to the ethos of Leeds football have made him a revered figure in the community.

Under Turner's tutelage, Leeds City has not only dominated the NCEL Premier Division but has also showcased a penchant for nurturing young talent. The club's youth academy is flourishing, producing promising prospects that bode well for the club's future.

As Turner embarks on another year at the helm, the immediate focus shifts to the ongoing NCEL League Cup campaign. Leeds City faces Thackley in the quarter-final, and expectations are running high. The prospect of adding a cup triumph to their league success adds an extra layer of excitement for the devoted Leeds City faithful.

In an official statement, Turner expressed his gratitude for the contract extension and outlined his vision for the future. "This extension is more than a contract; it's a commitment to a shared journey. We're not just building a team; we're building a legacy. Leeds City is on an upward trajectory, and we're just getting started."

With the contract inked and the stage set for future endeavours, all eyes now turn to the pitch, where Leeds City is set to face Thackley. The clash not only presents an opportunity for further silverware but serves as a testament to the club's relentless pursuit of success under the stewardship of David Turner.

As the Leeds City anthem echoes through the stands, the extended contract signifies a united front – a commitment to the journey, the fans, and the enduring spirit of Leeds football.

Jack

2 days

Leeds City Crowned NCEL Premier Division Champions

In a resounding display of footballing prowess, Leeds City have secured the NCEL Premier Division title with a commanding 4-1 victory over Histon at their fortress, Middleton Park.

The celebratory atmosphere echoed the resounding success achieved under the astute management of David Turner.

The match kicked off in emphatic fashion as Leeds City's prolific striker, Tai Sodje, opened the scoring with a clinical close-range finish. Sodje's goal not only set the tone for the game but also underlined his status as the league's top scorer.

Versatile left-back Aidy White, playing in an advanced role as left-midfielder, showcased his attacking prowess with a well-timed header, doubling Leeds City's lead after just 26 minutes. White's goal added a layer of diversity to an already potent attacking force.

Darren Lowe, a consistent goal-scorer throughout the season, further solidified his status as a fan favorite by netting two goals. The first, a low drive that found the net off the post, and the second, a confidently converted penalty, demonstrated Lowe's goal-scoring prowess and contributed to the convincing victory.

Despite facing a relentless Leeds City side, Histon managed to pull one back through Brad Birch's 20-yard finish. However, the goal proved to be a mere consolation as Leeds City maintained control and composure throughout the match.

With 83 points from 29 games and a staggering 29-point lead over second-placed Pickering Town, Leeds City's dominance in the NCEL Premier Division has been nothing short of spectacular. The club's top scorers, Tai Sodje with 33 league goals and Darren Lowe with 31, have been instrumental in the team's success.

While Leeds City has already secured the title, the pursuit of records is far from over. The record points total of 108, set by Cleethorpes Town in the 2016/17 season, remains within reach. The challenge for Leeds City is clear: to win every remaining game and surpass the existing benchmark.

As the celebrations reverberate through the city, the Leeds City faithful can bask in the glory of a remarkable season and anticipate the possibility of their team etching their name in the record books. The journey continues, with every kick, goal, and victory marking a new chapter in the storied history of Leeds City AFC.