Leeds United's year in review - 10 moments that shaped 2020 at Elland Road

Luke Ayling’s post-match interview – February 8

Leeds entered the year top of the Championship, nine points clear in the promotion race – but by February 8 the Whites left Nottingham Forest crestfallen in defeat level with the chasing pack. Luke Ayling’s interview post-match went viral. It was United’s ‘now or never’ moment.

Luke Ayling’s wonder strike as season is halted – March 7

Following the defeat to Forest, United responded in style by winning five out of their next six. The run was complete as Luke Ayling thundered a volley home to secure a 2-0 win over Huddersfield. Just days later the season was halted amid the global pandemic.

Norman Hunter’s death – April 17

A moment that shook Leeds United to its very core. A club legend and regular match goer Norman Hunter sadly passed away after contracting coronavirus. The Whites were hit again by the news of the untimely deaths of record appearance maker Jack Charlton and ex-defender Trevor Cherry in the following weeks.

Pablo Hernandez scores at Swansea as promotion nears – July 12

After a three-month hiatus the promotion race continued apace and Leeds United were put within touching distance of elevation to the Premier League as Pablo Hernandez struck late on at Swansea City. It will forever be remembered as THE goal that finally ended 16 years of hurt.

Promotion moment – July 17

It came when Leeds United least expected it. West Bromwich Albion travelled to West Yorkshire neighbours and relegation-threatened Huddersfield Town needing victory – the Terriers win sparked unbridled joy across the city as the Whites players celebrated promotion at Elland Road.

Derby guard of honour – July 19

On the weekend promotion and the Championship title was secured without kicking a ball, Marcelo Bielsa’s men travelled to Derby. After days of celebration a guard of honour and victory was the perfect way to end a chapter of hurt following Spygate and play-off defeat to the Rams just a season before.

Elland Road trophy lift – July 22

Not how the joyous scenes inside Elland Road should’ve played out as Leeds lifted the Championship trophy following victory over Charlton on the final day. Liam Cooper started the celebrations in style and Marcelo Bielsa created a lasting image hoisting the title aloft.

Record signing Rodrigo – August 29

Leeds enjoyed a record-breaking summer of transfer spending whilst preparing for the top flight. United smashed their transfer record with the arrival of forward Rodrigo from Valencia for £29m. Robin Koch, Diego Llorente and Raphinha were among those to follow.

Leeds are back with a bang at Liverpool – September 12

With little expectation Leeds re-announced themselves in the Premier League by taking it to the reigning champions at Anfield. Liverpool claimed a narrow 4-3 but United announced their intentions that they weren’t just back to make up the numbers.

Ending the year on a high at West Brom – December 29

United’s first few months in the top flight caused major discussion outside of the club – scoring 30 and conceding 30. Leeds, though, answered back over questions of style with a 5-0 win at West Brom to close out a memorable 2020 for the club.