The 2000-2001 season marked a remarkable chapter in the history of Leeds United, as the club not only excelled in domestic competitions but also made a significant impact in Europe. Under the management of David O’Leary, Leeds showcased a brand of football that captivated fans and left a lasting impression in European competitions.
Premier League Performance
In the Premier League, Leeds United finished in 4th place, securing a total of 68 points. This performance not only highlighted their strength in the domestic league but also guaranteed qualification for the next season’s UEFA Champions League. The team’s attacking prowess was evident, with 58 goals scored, showcasing their ability to compete with the best.
Star Player: Mark Viduka
A key figure in Leeds’ successful campaign was Mark Viduka, who made headlines with his goal-scoring ability. The Australian striker, signed from Celtic for a record fee of £6.5 million on 2 July 2000, netted an impressive 22 goals across all competitions. Viduka’s contributions were vital in maintaining Leeds’ competitive edge throughout the season.
Domestic Cup Competitions
In the domestic cups, Leeds United reached the Fourth Round of the FA Cup and the Third Round of the League Cup. Although they did not progress far in these competitions, their focus remained primarily on league and European success.
European Glory: Champions League Run
Leeds United’s European adventure was nothing short of spectacular. The club reached the semi-finals of the UEFA Champions League, a remarkable achievement that showcased their talent on the continental stage. Unfortunately, they faced Valencia and were eliminated with a 3-0 aggregate defeat. Despite this setback, their run in the Champions League solidified their status as a competitive force in European football.
Notable Transfers
The 2000-2001 season was also marked by significant transfers that shaped the squad. On 23 November 2000, Leeds broke the English transfer record by signing Rio Ferdinand from West Ham United for a staggering £18 million. Ferdinand’s arrival added a new dimension to Leeds’ defensive line.
Later, on 21 May 2001, Leeds strengthened their attacking options by acquiring Robbie Keane from Inter Milan for £12 million. This transfer underlined the club’s ambition to compete at the highest level.
David O’Leary’s Legacy
Under the stewardship of David O’Leary, Leeds United not only played an attractive brand of football but also captured the hearts of fans and football enthusiasts alike. His ability to nurture talent and build a cohesive team left an indelible mark on the club’s history. The 2000-2001 season is still remembered fondly by Leeds supporters, as it epitomized a time of hope and ambition.
Conclusion
The 2000-2001 season was a defining period for Leeds United, filled with memorable moments and significant achievements. From their top-four finish in the Premier League to a historic Champions League run, Leeds demonstrated their capabilities on both domestic and European fronts. The contributions of players like Mark Viduka, combined with strategic signings and O’Leary’s leadership, paved the way for a remarkable season that remains etched in the club’s legacy.
Premier League 2000-01 Standings
| Pos | Team | Pld | W | D | L | GF | GA | GD | Pts |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Manchester United (C) | 38 | 24 | 8 | 6 | 79 | 31 | +48 | 80 |
| 2 | Arsenal | 38 | 20 | 10 | 8 | 63 | 38 | +25 | 70 |
| 3 | Liverpool | 38 | 20 | 9 | 9 | 71 | 39 | +32 | 69 |
| 4 | Leeds United | 38 | 20 | 8 | 10 | 64 | 43 | +21 | 68 |
| 5 | Ipswich Town | 38 | 20 | 6 | 12 | 57 | 42 | +15 | 66 |
| 6 | Chelsea | 38 | 17 | 10 | 11 | 68 | 45 | +23 | 61 |
| 7 | Sunderland | 38 | 15 | 12 | 11 | 46 | 41 | +5 | 57 |
| 8 | Aston Villa | 38 | 13 | 15 | 10 | 46 | 43 | +3 | 54 |
| 9 | Charlton Athletic | 38 | 14 | 10 | 14 | 50 | 57 | −7 | 52 |
| 10 | Southampton | 38 | 14 | 10 | 14 | 40 | 48 | −8 | 52 |
| 11 | Newcastle United | 38 | 14 | 9 | 15 | 44 | 50 | −6 | 51 |
| 12 | Tottenham Hotspur | 38 | 13 | 10 | 15 | 47 | 54 | −7 | 49 |
| 13 | Leicester City | 38 | 14 | 6 | 18 | 39 | 51 | −12 | 48 |
| 14 | Middlesbrough | 38 | 9 | 15 | 14 | 44 | 44 | 0 | 42 |
| 15 | West Ham United | 38 | 10 | 12 | 16 | 45 | 50 | −5 | 42 |
| 16 | Everton | 38 | 11 | 9 | 18 | 45 | 59 | −14 | 42 |
| 17 | Derby County | 38 | 10 | 12 | 16 | 37 | 59 | −22 | 42 |
| 18 | Manchester City (R) | 38 | 8 | 10 | 20 | 41 | 65 | −24 | 34 |
| 19 | Coventry City (R) | 38 | 8 | 10 | 20 | 36 | 63 | −27 | 34 |
| 20 | Bradford City (R) | 38 | 5 | 11 | 22 | 30 | 70 | −40 | 26 |
Leeds United 2000-01 Fixtures and Results
| Competition | Date | Match | Result | Score |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Premier League | 19 Aug 2000 | Leeds United v Leicester City | D | 1-1 |
| Premier League | 27 Aug 2000 | Manchester City v Leeds United | D | 0-0 |
| Premier League | 10 Sep 2000 | Leeds United v Tottenham Hotspur | L | 0-2 |
| Premier League | 17 Sep 2000 | Leeds United v Newcastle United | W | 4-3 |
| Premier League | 24 Sep 2000 | West Ham United v Leeds United | D | 2-2 |
| Premier League | 30 Sep 2000 | Leeds United v Coventry City | W | 4-0 |
| Premier League | 15 Oct 2000 | Leeds United v Aston Villa | L | 1-2 |
| Premier League | 22 Oct 2000 | Fulham v Leeds United | D | 1-1 |
| UEFA Champions League | 25 Oct 2000 | Leeds United v AC Milan | L | 0-1 |
| Premier League | 29 Oct 2000 | Leeds United v Manchester United | L | 0-1 |
| Premier League | 5 Nov 2000 | Leicester City v Leeds United | D | 1-1 |
| FA Cup | 10 Dec 2000 | Leeds United v Leicester City | W | 2-1 |
| Premier League | 17 Dec 2000 | Leeds United v Arsenal | D | 0-0 |
| UEFA Champions League | 20 Dec 2000 | Leeds United v Hapoel Tel Aviv | W | 3-0 |
| Premier League | 26 Dec 2000 | Leeds United v Chelsea | D | 2-2 |
| Premier League | 31 Dec 2000 | Leeds United v Ipswich Town | W | 1-0 |
| Premier League | 13 Jan 2001 | Arsenal v Leeds United | L | 2-0 |
| Premier League | 21 Jan 2001 | Leeds United v West Ham United | W | 3-1 |
| UEFA Champions League | 27 Feb 2001 | Leeds United v Valencia | L | 0-1 |
| Premier League | 3 Mar 2001 | Leeds United v Southampton | W | 2-1 |
| UEFA Champions League | 13 Mar 2001 | Valencia v Leeds United | L | 0-2 |
| Premier League | 17 Mar 2001 | Leeds United v Derby County | W | 3-0 |
| Premier League | 7 Apr 2001 | Leeds United v Sunderland | D | 1-1 |
| Premier League | 14 Apr 2001 | Tottenham Hotspur v Leeds United | D | 2-2 |
| Premier League | 21 Apr 2001 | Leeds United v Everton | L | 0-1 |
| Premier League | 28 Apr 2001 | Leeds United v Chelsea | D | 0-0 |
| Premier League | 6 May 2001 | Leeds United v Newcastle United | D | 1-1 |
