Eddie Lewis has today departed Elland Road for the bright lights of the Premiership in an undisclosed fee.
The US International opted to take the opportunity for one last go at top flight football with the newly promoted Derby County, having undergone a medical on Friday afternoon and looks set to be included in The Ram`s squad for their match against Birmingham City next Saturday.
Lewis, 33 made 96 appearances in a Leeds United shirt since his free move from Preston North End and managed the odd goal now and again. A fans favourite who will be missed at Leeds United however manager Dennis Wise was not prepared to let sentiment, or fan power sway his decision as he told Leedsunited.com: “I wanted to keep Eddie, but this is a wonderful opportunity for him,” Wisey explained.
“He phoned me up and I was never going to stand his way and say ‘sorry you’re not going’. I think he would have been annoyed with me if I’d have done that.”
The lack of Lewis in the squad at the weekend meant a chance for new signing Andrew Hughes to prove his versatility by stepping into the void left by the American. “I phoned Hughesy and said we were in a pickle,” said Wise.
“We needed someone to play at left back and he said ‘I’ll play anywhere you like gaffer’. Thats what he’s like about him.
“He’s a true pro, the lads like him, and he’s done well.”
Join Vital Leeds United!
It’s very easy to sign up with Vital Leeds United, simply click the link and enjoy getting involved.
The Message Board: .After you’ve registered, you will be able to interact with other Leeds United supporters via our forums. To visit the Vital Leeds message board, click here.
Have your say: This website is your website and we are looking for people to help contribute to the site. Do you go to most of the games and want to share your opinions. Why not write a match report?
Do you believe you can make a better half-time pie than the clubs catering contractors? Well write in with a recipe!
We`re looking for contributors to add almost anything and everything linked with the club to Vital Leeds United. To get in touch with us, please feel free to fire an e-mail to leeds@vitalfootball.co.uk.