DAVID BATTY: WE'LL BE BACK

DAVID BATTY: WE\'LL BE BACK

Iconic midfielder optimistic for the future...

Despite somewhat distancing himself from the game since his retirement in 2004, David Batty says he still keeps a close eye on how Leeds are performing and is certain that the club will "come strong in the very near future".

Batty, now 46, made 350 appearances in total during his two spells at Elland Road, helping United to the Second Division title in 1990 and the First Division two years later.

Fruitful spells at Blackburn and Newcastle followed, before Batty returned to West Yorkshire in 1998 as David O’Leary looked to add a wise head and some midfield bite to his youthful, Europe-bound side.

The Leeds icon, an Academy product who made his debut for the club as an 18-year-old in 1986, is part of the 2015/16 Season Ticket launch, which brings together homegrown stars past and present.

"I’m just a bit flattered really, I was chuffed that they asked me," Batty said of his involvement.

"I was always known as someone who used to enjoy playing but not watching and that’s been the case since I packed in – I don’t really watch much football.

"I’m pleased to be able to help out a bit. I’m always aware of how Leeds are getting on.

"I think, judging from the last few results, we were doing okay and then we dropped off.

"It’s a bit of inconsistency which has reflected all through the season.

"I think it’s a matter of just building for next season. I do honestly believe we’ll come strong in the very near future.

"We’re too big of a pull for players that must want to come and play for Leeds. We must be up there soon."

Click here to watch David Batty starring alongside the likes of Alex Mowatt, Lewis Cook, Sam Byram, Charlie Taylor, Eddie Gray, Norman Hunter and Josh Warrington in our 2015/16 Season Ticket video.

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