Leeds United manager Simon Grayson was quick to rebuff Doncaster Rovers' interest in Australian midfielder Neil Kilkenny, following an enquiry from the South Yorkshire club.

The Elland Road boss was also disappointed to see Doncaster's apparent interest in Kilkenny appear in the media.

"I was surprised to see it come out publicly," said the United manager.

"It is true that Sean O'Driscoll rang me about Neil. Doncaster also enquired last January as well.

"Neil is an important part of our team - he did well when we he came into the side and I was pleased with him.

"He will be an important player for us next season as well, and we want to keep our better players."

The 23-year-old made 30 appearances last season and was an ever-present under Grayson from the 3-2 win against Scunthorpe in February.

Killa, who attracted interest from Doncaster when he opted to join Leeds from Birmingham in January 2008, suffered an ankle injury during the Play-Off semi-final defeat at the hands of Millwall, but the injury wasn't as bad as feared and he will be fit for the start of pre-season training.

The former Arsenal trainee has also undergone a minor mouth operation and, having missed pre-season last summer due to his involvement with the Australian Olympic sqaud, is looking forward to getting a full pre-season in with United.