Matteo Hopes Leeds Build Again

Last updated : 08 July 2004 By Kevin Markey
He said to the Yorkshire Evening Post: "It was a hard wrench to leave because I have made so many close friends inside and outside of the club since I came to Leeds.

"It was very difficult, but the club thought it was in their best interests and I wanted to help. Maybe they will be able to use the money they have saved to bring other players in and build again.

"I was very happy at Leeds, I think most people knew that, but the circumstances surrounding the club changed over the past 12 months and financially things weren't right.

"It's a necessary evil that some players had to go over the summer and I think most people accept that. We've lost a lot of good players, but that is all down to circumstances."

He added: "The fans have been fantastic ever since I came here. I love the supporters at Leeds and I want to thank them personally for all they have done for me. I hope Leeds can bounce back and I'm sure they will. Leeds were the team that got me playing my best football.

"I left on good terms and I will be back again next season. The manager has invited me back to games when I get the chance and I will definitely be taking him up on that. A small piece of me will always be Leeds United."