Gary McAllister welcomes Elland Road expansion as Leeds plan major upgrade | OneFootball

Gary McAllister says he is really excited to see Elland Road modernised as Leeds press ahead with a major redevelopment.

According to yorkshireeveningpost.co.uk, work is under way this summer to lift capacity from around 37,000 to 53,000 and bring the ground up to UEFA Category four. The project also targets upgraded facilities and an improved matchday experience.

Plans extend beyond the stands, with proposals for a mass transit system and up to 2,500 affordable homes around the site.

McAllister welcomed the decision to remain at Elland Road, saying the stadium looks tired and needs help, and that he is eager to see the new look.

First-team focus has also picked up the theme, with Ilia Gruev referencing the expansion in a recent interview with former club Werder Bremen while outlining 49ers Enterprises’ ambition to keep driving standards.

The 49ers are expected to back Daniel Farke’s squad again this summer, having spent around £100million following Championship promotion. Chairman Paraag Marathe has spoken about raising the bar so recruits improve the starting XI rather than simply add depth.

Expansion and development will increase Leeds’ revenue streams significantly, an important factor under the Premier League’s new Squad Cost Ratio rules. As a member of Leeds’ First Division title-winning side, McAllister said the owners view the club as a big city operation and want a stadium to match, adding that Elland Road’s atmosphere can help attract players.

Source: yorkshireeveningpost.co.uk