New Leeds signing Danny Pugh has no regrets about swapping the Champions
League and Premiership football for the potential slog of life in the First
Division next season.
Pugh becomes the first capture of new boss Kevin Blackwell following his
appointment on Wednesday, with the 21-year-old arriving at Elland Road as part of
the £7million package which saw Alan Smith move to Manchester United.
The 21-year-old left-sided utility player is essentially a free transfer, and
a sign of the way ahead for Leeds who must operate in more prudent circles if
they are to survive in the Football League.
Pugh has signed a two-year contract, ending a long-standing association with
Manchester United after signing for them as a trainee after leaving school.
Despite Leeds' much-publicised behind-the-scenes problems, Pugh is happy to
join Leeds and play under a coach he rates highly.
"I was very impressed with him," said Pugh, who made just seven appearances
in his two years as a professional at Old Trafford.
"He's very enthusiastic and you can tell he wants to take the club forward
and that's what I am looking forward to as well.
"I've had a look around, got a good feel about the place and I'm looking
forward to starting here now.
"But I've no regrets about leaving Manchester United. I had reached a stage
where I needed a change and I think this is the perfect place for that change.
"I would have liked to have played more games, but it didn't happen, although
I believe I can do that here now.
"I did play three times in the Champions League, which was a great experience
for me and a good thing to have on my CV.
"But high standards were expected of me all the time I was at Manchester
United and hopefully that's what I can bring here and carry it on."
Pugh joins an illustrious list of players who have moved from Old Trafford to
Elland Road in the post-war era, following in the footsteps of Johnny Giles,
Brian Greenhoff, Gordon Strachan and Lee Sharpe.
Despite the rivalry between the two clubs, all were accepted by Whites fans,
and Pugh feels he can tread a similar path providing he gives his all week in
and week out.
"I don't know how the fans will take to me, but if I am performing well on
the pitch then I am sure they won't have a problem," added Pugh on the club
website.
"It won't matter then who I previously played for. As long as I am doing a
job for Leeds United it will all go well.
"And if I have half the impact of someone like Gordon [Strachan] then I will
have had a great start."
Blackwell was understandably delighted to have completed his first signing,
believing Pugh can play a significant role in Leeds' First Division campaign.
"He was highly regarded at Manchester United and I can see why because he is
an athlete with a good touch," said Blackwell.
"He will give us more balance on the left-hand side and he has the hunger to
do well that I want to bring to this club. He is definitely one for the
future."
E-mail Article 
Print-Friendly
Subscribe to RSS Feed 
Post to del.icio.us
Facebook
