Leeds United 2000 rewind, O'Leary's table-toppers and where they are now | OneFootball

Leeds United are fighting to stay in the Premier League under Daniel Farke, but in 2000 they began the new century on top under David O’Leary. A fearless young side were chasing the title.

According to Leedsunited.news, they hosted Aston Villa at Elland Road on the third of January 2000 after 12 wins in 15. Arsenal had halted a five-match streak on 28 December.

Gareth Southgate scored twice to inflict a second straight defeat, and Leeds ultimately finished third.

Nigel Martyn started in goal, a club great who rivalled David Seaman for England’s number one. Gary Kelly, a one-club stalwart, made 531 appearances and stayed after 2004 relegation. Ian Harte left in 2004 and now works as an agent.

Jonathan Woodgate, an acclaimed academy graduate, was hindered by injuries and his sale under Peter Ridsdale angered supporters, he is now a coach last at Middlesbrough. Michael Duberry fell behind Lucas Radebe, Dominic Matteo and Rio Ferdinand, now an elite performance coach. Eirik Bakke started on the right and now coaches in Norway.

Harry Kewell played on the left and scored Leeds’ only goal, he now manages Hanoi FC. Alf-Inge Haaland was a popular member of the UEFA Cup semi-final side and was sold to Manchester City that summer. Matthew Jones now manages Wales under-21s, Alan Smith is Director of the XL Academy in the United States, and Michael Bridges, who hit 19 league goals that season, now appears on LUTV.

Source: Leedsunited.news