Leeds United news: Keith Wyness suggests when new stadium build will begin
Everton’s former chief Keith Wyness has claimed Leeds United will start work on a new stadium when they have survived two seasons back in the Premier League.
Speaking on the new edition of Football Insider’s Inside Track podcast, the 66-year-old – who served as CEO at Goodison Park between 2004 and 2009 and now runs a football consultancy advising elite clubs – insisted being in the Championship is a “problem” for the Whites.
Leeds have explored multiple plans to expand or rebuild their Elland Road home in recent years, but those projects were halted due to relegation to the second tier.
The Yorkshire giants confirmed via a statement in July that Elland Road has been transferred back to the club after it was sold in 2004 following financial issues.
37,792 spectators can currently fit inside Leeds’ famous ground and has been filled to capacity in each of the last three seasons.
Leeds want Premier League security before starting stadium work, says Wyness
Wyness claimed owners 49ers Enterprises will “start to push the buttons” on redevelopment if the club can remain in the Premier League for three straight seasons.
He told Football Insider‘s Insider Track podcast: “You’ve got to stay in the Premier League for a couple of years before you even consider a new stadium for Leeds.
“I’ve always said you need to be in the top division for five years before you’re considered stable.
“You’ve only got to look at some of the clubs in danger of relegation.
“Leeds is a big club, it would fill a new stadium without doubt.
“But they would like to see a bit more stability, and they missed that chance when they were relegated last time.
“It’s a problem for Leeds and they’ve got to get it sorted.
“But after a couple of seasons in the Premier League, I think they would start to push the buttons to kick this project off.
“That’s what I think the 49ers will be looking at.”
In other news, Leeds handed significant Patrick Bamford boost.
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