I would like to start by saying a huge thank you to Garry Monk, his backroom staff and all the players who have represented Leeds United during this season. It is a very special group which has reconnected with the fans and followed Garry into battle every week. We have enjoyed some incredible highs together over the past season, none more so than at Hillsborough in September when we saw the first signs of everything coming together and Brighton & Hove Albion at home when you showed that on your day you can beat anyone in this division.

A special thank you also goes to Adam Underwood and all the staff connected to the Academy.

To Massimo – thank you for the opportunity to work for Leeds United. I feel that once the dust settles the history books will show this season was the start of the club’s journey back to the Premier League. Not only did this season bring together a team of players that the fans could unite behind, but you secured a proper and truly appropriate new custodian of Leeds United in Andrea.

To Andrea – I wish you all the very best for the future. It has been a pleasure to work with you and your team during your investment into the club and in your initial months. I have no doubt that Leeds United has a hugely bright and successful future with you at the helm.

I would like to also praise all of the staff at Elland Road – from the likes of Mandy and Maria in the ticket office to Lewis in accounts, Craig and Jordan in the media team and Hannah as club secretary. Everyone has done a wonderful job during my tenure at the club. This team of people are all led by my senior management team of Paul, Katie, Fay, Mark, Stuart, Mitch, Mike and James – your commitment, dedication and desire for this club and it succeeding is remarkable and unrivalled.

Finally, I would like to say my biggest thank you to the supporters of Leeds United – you have left me in awe at times this season.  You have travelled up and down the country in huge numbers and made Elland Road a fortress again. I sincerely believe the foundations have now been laid to allow this club to go back to where you belong and deserve to be, the very top.

All the very best,

Ben Mansford