Leeds proud to have changed image, says owner Radrizzani

The club enjoyed great success under manager Don Revie in the 1960s and 1970s but was often criticised for its physical approach on the pitch.

Leeds United is currently 12th in the standings on its return to the top-flight, picking up 10 points from seven matches.

Leeds United owner Andrea Radrizzani said he is proud to have helped the club rebuild its reputation from its 'Dirty Leeds' days to becoming a favoured team of many young fans in the UK.

The club enjoyed great success under manager Don Revie in the 1960s and 1970s but was often criticised for its physical approach on the pitch, with Brian Clough describing  as “tithe dirtiest, most cynical team in the league”.

Under current coach Marcelo Bielsa, however, the club has won plaudits for its high-octane pressing game and secured a return to the Premier League in July for the first time since 2004.

“Recently I've seen on social media... about how Leeds became a second team for many youngsters in the country,” Radrizzani told beIN SPORTS in an interview.

“Normally you choose the team with the best football and the best style of the team, so I'm very proud of that.

“We're on the right way. I dream to take Leeds to Europe in time. One step at a time.”

Leeds is 12th in the standings on its return to the top-flight, picking up 10 points from seven matches.

Radrizzani has made no secret of his ambitions to make the club capable of challenging for the European qualification spots but said establishing itself in the Premier League remains the top priority for the next two seasons.

“This brand is well known everywhere so if we stay in the Premier League with the opportunity that this club can build... really, we can aim to stay just next to the top six,” said Radrizzani.

“We have potential to grow over the next three to five years, and Bielsa has put in the foundations for even the future without him.”