Over the years, Leeds have had some wonderful players from around the world. South African Lucas Radebe is a deserved club legend. Australia’s Harry Kewell has produced some of the club’s greatest ever moments in its history, while modern-day players like Brazil’s Raphinha showcased their immense skill in the biggest league in the world. The list goes on and on.
Irish players have also played a key role in Leeds United’s rich history. When we think of Ireland, people tend to picture pints of Guinness, the hits of U2, Gaelic games, and even the Celtic symbolism that is heavily featured in games like Irish Luck slots. But we certainly shouldn’t forget the abundance of talented footballers that Ireland has produced. These days, Brighton’s Evan Ferguson is hogging the headlines, while Leeds United legend, Jack Charlton, is adored in the Emerald Isle despite being English. The Irish love football, they’ve produced a number of wonderful players, and some of them have even played their part in Leeds United’s journey over the years.
Of course, not every single player from Ireland has delivered for the Peacocks, but we’ve seen plenty of Ireland’s finest turn it on at Elland Road and highlight Ireland’s impact in the beautiful game. To hammer it home further, let’s take a look at some of Leeds’ best ever Irish players.
Ian Harte
A talented full-back with a wand of a left foot, Ian Harte has scored a number of screamers in his time, particularly from set piece situations. The Drogheda man spent eight years playing for Leeds United and is fondly remembered by the fans who watched him, with Harte’s prolific left peg contributing to a number of memorable moments over the years. Despite leaving the club following relegation to the Championship in 2004, Harte is a player who rarely let Leeds United down and had immense talent from dead ball situations, in particular.Gary Kelly
Born Drogheda 1974, after signing in 1991 he went from a struggling reserve-team front man to World Cup full-back in 1993-94. He made the right-back position his own with a series of superb displays, his blinding speed and tenacity making him a daunting opponent for any winger. He was ever-present in his first two seasons and presently has the most appearances of any player at the club. Holder of over 50 caps for Eire he is approaching the twilight of a long and distinguished career with United and has, as yet, no silver wear to adorn it. He was selected in the Premiership "team of the year" in 1999-2000. Record to 2004, 405 starts and 15 from the bench with 3 goals.
Robbie Keane
The man with a famous goal celebration, Robbie Keane is a Leeds United favourite after one of Ireland’s greatest ever goal-getters was rescued following his nightmare spell with Inter Milan and subsequently rediscovered his love for the game in Yorkshire. During his 18 months with Leeds, Keane scored 13 league goals, put on a number of top performances, and demonstrated his love for the badge and his passion for the cause of numerous occasions. His move to Tottenham certainly hurt, but it didn’t surprise Leeds’ passionate fans given the clear ability he had.
Johnny Giles
After being frozen out at Manchester United, John Giles was given a lifeline by Leeds United, and boy did he take it! During a 12 year spell with the club, Giles established himself as one of the toughest midfielders in England’s top flight, going on to play for the club 383 times and scoring 88 goals in the process. Giles never let the team down, he was as passionate as they come, and he was a favourite of Don Revie. Ask fans of a certain generation what they think of John Giles and you’ll only hear good things about the Irish favourite, that’s for sure. What a player he was.