As the song goes, Leeds have been through many ups and downs over the past quarter of a century, from the heady heights of a UEFA Champions League semi-final to the depths of League One and embarrassing FA Cup eliminations.
The club are currently on an upward trajectory with Daniel Farke and the 49ers steadying the ship following last season’s relegation from the Premier League. The YEP tasked its Leeds following to come up with their most important and influential players of the past 25 years with supporters responding in their droves.
Here are the Whites’ most influential players of the past 25 years in alphabetical order.
19. Nigel Martyn
The only goalkeeper on this list, which speaks volumes, is former England international Nigel Martyn. A Leeds stopper for many years who saved his teammates countless times on European nights. (Pic: Stu Forster/Getty Images) Photo: Stu Forster
20. Ross McCormack
Scorer of 58 goals and creator of a further 31 assists, McCormack's stay at Leeds was short-lived but impactful. (Photo by Tony Marshall/Getty Images) Photo: Tony Marshall
21. Kalvin Phillips
The local lad made good, Kalvin Phillips may be having a tough time of it currently but the 27-year-old will always have a special place in the hearts of Leeds fans, especially for his role in promotion, finishing in the top half and putting Leeds on the map with his performances at the home Euros where England finished runners-up. (Photo by PAUL ELLIS/AFP via Getty Images) Photo: PAUL ELLIS
22. Lucas Radebe
A leader on and off the field, 'The Chief' epitomises the Leeds spirit and represented the club for over a decade, notching just over 200 league appearances, several of which as captain. (Photo by Michael Steele/Getty Images) Photo: Michael Steele
23. Raphinha
An unknown quantity upon arriving in England, Raphinha quickly made a name for himself at Leeds, subsequently earning a transfer to Barcelona - but only after saving the club from relegation, celebrating in the stands and walking the length of the pitch on his knees. Iconic, and perhaps the most talented player on this list. (Photo by Alex Davidson/Getty Images) Photo: Alex Davidson
24. Mark Viduka
The Duke, one of Elland Road's most prolific strikers and likeable characters. The Australian now runs a coffee shop in Croatia, making the occasional trip over to the UK, but whenever he does, there'll be no shortage of Leeds punters lining up to buy him a drink. (Photo by Gary M. Prior/Getty Images) Photo: Gary M. Prior