Stuart Dallas, Man Utd friendship and the Leeds group set to end 29-year USA wait | OneFootball

Leeds United’s long-awaited return to the USA has Tampa Bay fans mobilising for a landmark summer. The region’s Supporters' Group are preparing to welcome the club back after a 29-year absence.

According to yorkshireeveningpost.co.uk, Daniel Farke’s side play Wrexham at Raymond James Stadium in Tampa on Saturday 25 July. The Leeds United Tampa Bay Supporters' Group have that date ringed for the club’s first US appearance since 1997.

Group organiser John Myers, originally from Goole and a Leeds graduate, moved across the Atlantic 22 years ago. After his son’s Saturday football ended, and with a nudge from his wife, he set up a Facebook community about six years ago that grew from a handful into hundreds.

Membership is now around 320, with 100-150 based locally and others from Sarasota, Miami and further afield, plus members in the UK and Norway. There is also a French fan who studied in Leeds, and a healthy American contingent who often become regulars.

Between 15 and 60 supporters gather for matches, currently at Grand Central Brewhouse in St Petersburg. The group plan to reunite with a friendly local landlord once he finishes moving.

They previously met at his English-style pub despite his Manchester United allegiance, where their flag, a signed shirt and scarves were displayed and sausage rolls arrived at half-time. The warm welcome outweighed the rivalry.

In April, club great Stuart Dallas and actor Matthew Lewis fronted a Premier League Mornings live fan event in Tampa, complete with Guinness topped with Leeds crests. Leeds have hinted at similar activities during the tour, and with a World Cup ahead it could be a memorable summer for the group.

Myers said the club are still determining plans and will work with the group to create events for visiting fans. Specifics have not been shared, and he hopes for something akin to April’s meet-up.

Source: yorkshireeveningpost.co.uk