Howard Wilkinson verdict shared in ‘Astonishing’ new Leeds United message

Ian Herbert is astonished that Leeds United legend Howard Wilkinson doesn’t have a statue at Elland Road.

The former manager of the Whites turned 81 on 13 November and is best remembered for winning the First Division title with the Peacocks back in 1992.

Writing in his column in the Daily Mail [20 November, pg 71], Herbert is staggered at the lack of tribute given to Wilkinson at the club.

“Howard Wilkinson was 81 last week and, though Leeds acknowledged the fact on their social media account, it’s astonishing that there is still no Elland Road statue for the man they called ‘Sarge’,” he wrote.

“He made Leeds champions just four years after taking them on as a club languishing 21st in Division Two.”

Leeds United need someone like Howard Wilkinson

Wilkinson worked wonders at Leeds, taking them to the top of English football, and that ushered in a period of success at the club before they eventually fell into financial disarray.

Marcelo Bielsa reinvigorated the Elland Road faithful, but after a couple of successful seasons, the Argentine was let go when things got a bit precarious.

Daniel Farke is currently in charge of the Whites and has shown promising signs since taking over, narrowly missing out on promotion last season after losing 1-0 to Southampton in the play-off final.

The German manager has continued to get the best out of the team at his disposal and the Peacocks once again sit in with a chance to make their way to the Premier League at the end of the campaign.

1farke
Credit: Imago

Farke has had to deal with several injury issues this season but has done well with a squad that arguably needs more depth.

The 49ers Enterprises have been encouraging with their management of the club so far, but in their quest to build the future, they should also remember the past and immortalise Wilkinson.

In other Leeds news, Lee Trundle predicts the scoreline against Swansea City.

For more Leeds news, follow us on Facebook or join our brand new WhatsApp Channel for instant updates to be sent straight to your phone.