FILE PHOTO: Soccer Football - Premier League - Leeds United v Leicester City - Elland Road, Leeds, Britain - April 25, 2023 General view of a corner flag inside the stadium before the match REUTERS/Phil Noble/File Photo
Everton’s former chief Keith Wyness has claimed Leeds United will announce plans for expansion at Elland Road “soon” after transferring the stadium back to the club.
Speaking on the new edition of Football Insider’s Inside Track podcast, the 66-year-old – who served as CEO at Goodison Park between 2004 and 2009 and now runs a football consultancy advising elite clubs – insisted the change in ownership is “a sign things are going the right way” after their “messy” financial situation in recent decades.
Leeds confirmed via a statement earlier this month (10 July) that Elland Road has been transferred back to the club after it was sold in 2004 following financial issues.
It was reported earlier this year that the club are conducting due diligence on expanding the famous stadium to a capacity of more than 50,000.
Elland Road currently holds 37,792 spectators and has been filled to capacity in each of the last three seasons.
Leeds United poised to announce stadium plans, says Wyness
Wyness claimed the stadium transfer is “great” news for Leeds supporters.
He told Football Insider‘s Insider Track podcast: “It’s great, the fans will be very happy with that news.
“It has been a battle for them before to sort their finances out, but this is a big sign now that things are going the right way.
“I think it’s the right use of new shareholder funds.
“I know the CEO, and Angus will always want a strong foundation. That’s what Leeds have needed, because it’s been a mess over the last two decades.
“Now it does seem that things are getting sorted out.
“Having ownership is a key thing, and I expect them to announce their plans and timetable for expansion soon.
“Promotion will always be the main focus in the Championship, but at some stage they’ll have to look at how they can do something better with Elland Road.”
