Family of disabled Leeds United fan delighted after receiving letter from Marcelo Bielsa

Finn Ghosh has battled an undiagnosed life-limiting illness since the age of just four months old.

However, Finn and his dad Bob share a love of Leeds United and watch all of their matches together.

Bob, from Herefordshire, decided to send a letter to Marcelo Bielsa thanking him for his approach to the Premier League season - telling him he would "forever be remember by the city".

He also shared his son's story and how much the pair love Leeds United.

Bob, who said he has supported the Whites since the age of seven, couldn't believe his eyes when he received a signed letter back from Bielsa, thanking his family for their unconditional support.

Also enclosed was a signed Leeds shirt for Finn, much to his delight.

Finn's dad Bob Ghosh told the Yorkshire Evening Post: "Our family was deeply touched by this thoughtful and compassionate gesture from Marcelo Bielsa.

"Apart from his brilliance as a Head Coach, he has a profound understanding of how much the Club’s success means to ordinary supporters like us.

"Although it was a private exchange of letters, I felt compelled to share this with other fans who feel the same way as I do and simply want to celebrate the fact that we have him here at Leeds – an extraordinary human-being who transcends the commercial greed which is prevalent within the sport."

Bob shared the exchange on a local Leeds United fan forum, with hundreds of supporters praising the club's response.

Here are the letters in full:

_______________________

Bob's letter to Marcelo Bielsa:

Firstly, thank you for what you have done at Leeds United.

You will forever be remembered by the City, its people and our supporters all over the world. We have waited 16 years for this moment and I have loved your approach to the first few games this season – playing exhilarating football, without fear of the opposition.

2004 was a dark year for many reasons, we were relegated from the Premier League and my son Finn was born, but at 4 months old was in hospital fighting for his life and later confirmed with an (undiagnosed) life-limiting illness. However, 16 years later, although Finn is severely disabled, he is healthy and happy and we love watching Leeds games together.

Apart from this, I know you have an interest in Architecture. Our firm is doing well, despite the difficult climate. You have motivated me in my business life too. I now always look to bring out the best in people, rather than changing the team. I now try and take ultimate responsibility for every action. When faced with challenging circumstances, I ask myself, ‘what would Bielsa do?!’. I have been inspired by your leadership and your belief in your team and the fact that you try and make them better people as a foundation for success.

I look forward to the rest of this season and thank you again for what you have done.

_____________________

Marcelo Bielsa's reply:

Dear Bob Ghosh,

Thank you very much for the letter you wrote to me.

As part of the great Leeds United team, we thank you for your unconditional support.

It is comforting for us to know that our work has generated happy moments for you.

One of the last sentences in your letter says that trying to make people around us better is the foundation of success. I think it is a beautiful phrase full of hope.

We send all our love to Finn. The T-shirt is for him.

I hope you continue to support Leeds United.

Kind regards,

Marcelo Bielsa

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