'I was like a Yorkshireman' - Lucas Radebe on his Leeds United and Elland Road love affair

Lucas Radebe has admitted he felt like he belonged to Leeds United during his 11-year spell at the club, believing he was an adopted Yorkshireman.

The South African born star made 256 appearances for the Whites as he ingrained himself into the hearts of those who watched him at Elland Road.

The Chief went on to become one of the most memorable central defenders to ever play for the club having joined the United ranks in 1994 from Premier Soccer League side Kaizer Chiefs.

His arrival was part of a double deal worth £250,000 to bring Radebe and Phil Masinga to Elland Road by manager Howard Wilkinson with the latter thought the more likely to make a lasting impact.

Rabebe, though, proved to be the more valuable of the two as he went on to be named captain in LS11 under former head coach George Graham before his retirement in 2005.

The now 50-year-old is said to have turned down interest from Manchester United, AC Milan and Roma in favour of remaining in West Yorkshire during his career.

United held a testimonial for a player who had given so much to the club during his stay, and he now says he found a home from home at Leeds.

"I still get goosebumps thinking about Champions League nights at Elland Road," he told Football Focus.

"I really enjoyed my time there. I felt like I belonged to Leeds. To come from the streets of Soweto to have a career in the UK and in the Premier League.

"For me, it was the appreciation to the people of Leeds. They took me in as one of theirs. I was like a Yorkshireman."