Leeds United and Manchester United will not be able to renew their rivalries in the Premier League this season.
The Whites were consigned to another season of Championship football at the end of last month after a 1-0 defeat to Southampton in the play-off final at Wembley.
Man United were able to get the better of Leeds in four of the six occasions they came up against each other during the latter’s most recent three year stay in the Premier League, but the rivalry still certainly means a lot to both sets of fans.
Rio Ferdinand is one of just a few players to have made the move from Leeds to Old Trafford, and has been met with years of animosity from Whites supporters since then.
Despite the desperate need to raise funds at the time, Alan Smith’s transfer also still leaves a bitter taste in the mouth of many.
Andy Cole makes comment about playing at Elland Road
Leeds are still renowned for having one of the best atmospheres in the country, with Kieran Trippier recently saying Elland Road is the best ground to play at as an away player.
Captain Liam Cooper also hailed the recent travelling contingent to Wembley as ‘lunatics’, while Connor Roberts was shocked at the level of support he received during his loan spell.
And former Man United striker Andy Cole has become the latest player past or present to praise Leeds supporters in a question and answer session on Reddit.
Cole was asked what his favourite away atmosphere was during his days as a player, and cited Elland Road as a ground he really enjoyed playing in.
He said: “Loved playing at Leeds and Anfield, for all that not intimidating but great atmosphere. Newcastle too.”
What did Kieran Trippier say about Elland Road and Leeds fans?
As mentioned, it was only recently that Newcastle United and England star Trippier was full of praise for Leeds supporters.
Trippier was one of several of members of the Three Lions squad to be asked about his favourite atmosphere to play in as an away player, and without hesitation, named Elland Road.
He said: “I’d say Elland Road is up there. Playing against Leeds when I was at Burnley, Tottenham and Newcastle, I think you know Leeds are really passionate fans.
“I think they’ve got a great support there and I’ve managed to play for England there as well. So I’d say Elland Road, maybe Anfield as well, but Elland Road certainly.”