Chelsea 'Kidnap' Leeds Youth

Last updated : 22 January 2006 By Kevin Markey

The Londoners have got England U-16 stars Tom Taiwo and Michael Woods from the Whites. In fact Bradford-born midfielder Taiwo was in the same England youth side that Arsenal's £12m signing Theo Walcott played for just 12 months ago and York-born midfielder Woods has been at Leeds since he was 11.

Chelsea youth scout Gary Worthington is the man behind the deal. He only just left Leeds recently and is now looking at their best talent.

Ken Bates is unlikely to take this transfer coup without a word or two and there are bound to be some recriminations.

The loss of Taiwo and Woods is a major blow for Leeds who are desperate to find a new generation of stars because of their financial position.