Full Version: Lucas Radebe
RADEBE, RADEBE, RADEBE, RADEBE, RADEBE, RADEBE, RADEBEE, RADEBEEEEE LUCAS
Line-up:
UNITED XI: Martyn (Sullivan 46), Kelly (Kamara 70), Wetherall, Radebe (Kilgallon 46), Halle (Johnson 46), Strachan (Jones 33), Batty, McAllister (Winjhard 46), Speed (Ward 66), Masinga (Lennon 22), Hasselbaink (Yeboah 22, Richardson 55).
INTERNATIONAL XI: Grobbelaar, Melchiot, Sharpe, Dacourt, Campo, Carew, Okocha, Khumalo, Zahovic, Kilgallon, Bakke, Halle, Radebe, McCoist, Brown.
Referee: D Gallagher.
Attendance: 37,886.
Score = Leeds 3 - World 7
Leeds scorers = Lennon, Ward, Kilgallon
World scorers = Melchiot, Carew, McCoist x2, Halle, Radebe x2
Cheers to Leeds Lad for getting the pics :clp
UNITED XI: Martyn (Sullivan 46), Kelly (Kamara 70), Wetherall, Radebe (Kilgallon 46), Halle (Johnson 46), Strachan (Jones 33), Batty, McAllister (Winjhard 46), Speed (Ward 66), Masinga (Lennon 22), Hasselbaink (Yeboah 22, Richardson 55).
INTERNATIONAL XI: Grobbelaar, Melchiot, Sharpe, Dacourt, Campo, Carew, Okocha, Khumalo, Zahovic, Kilgallon, Bakke, Halle, Radebe, McCoist, Brown.
Referee: D Gallagher.
Attendance: 37,886.
Score = Leeds 3 - World 7
Leeds scorers = Lennon, Ward, Kilgallon
World scorers = Melchiot, Carew, McCoist x2, Halle, Radebe x2
Cheers to Leeds Lad for getting the pics :clp
Zimbabwean Grobbelaar, who was born in Durban, showed glimpses of the flamboyant style that made him a favourite at Anfield in a carnival atmosphere as Leeds fans celebrated the end of the line for one of their favourites.
The 36-year-old defender, who was capped 70 times by South Africa and captained them at World Cups in France in 1998 and Japan and South Korea in 2002, has been forced to quit playing through injury.
Radebe has managed only two games for Leeds this season after rupturing an Achilles tendon against Wolves in August last year and then suffering medial ligament damage.
"He is not just revered in Leeds, where he is and deserves to be hugely popular, but throughout the whole of South Africa," Grobbelaar said.
"For 38,000 people to come and see him speaks volumes for him. The man is an ambassador for football and for South Africa.
"He will be very proud and will probably want to thank everyone here himself."
Bolton midfielder Speed, who played alongside Radebe at Leeds for nearly two years before a £3.5million move to Everton in July 1996, insisted he deserves all the acclaim he gets.
Speed said: "You just had to see the crowd. That says it all, really. A full house has made it a great occasion for him and I am honoured to have been a part of it.
"I would like to thank him for inviting me."
Former Leeds boss Howard Wilkinson brought Radebe to England as a 25-year-old after paying Kaiser Chiefs £250,000 for both him and striker Phil Masinga.
Radebe went on to make 261 appearances for Leeds and was rewarded in style as Elland Road's biggest crowd of the season made his testimonial a day he should never forget.
"Credit for Lucas goes to Geoff Sleight (Leeds chief scout at the time)," said Wilkinson.
"He went to track Phil Masinga but told me 'I think I've found a better player'. He followed him to another game in Australia and we managed to sneak them both out for the same money. It was a good deal."
The 36-year-old defender, who was capped 70 times by South Africa and captained them at World Cups in France in 1998 and Japan and South Korea in 2002, has been forced to quit playing through injury.
Radebe has managed only two games for Leeds this season after rupturing an Achilles tendon against Wolves in August last year and then suffering medial ligament damage.
"He is not just revered in Leeds, where he is and deserves to be hugely popular, but throughout the whole of South Africa," Grobbelaar said.
"For 38,000 people to come and see him speaks volumes for him. The man is an ambassador for football and for South Africa.
"He will be very proud and will probably want to thank everyone here himself."
Bolton midfielder Speed, who played alongside Radebe at Leeds for nearly two years before a £3.5million move to Everton in July 1996, insisted he deserves all the acclaim he gets.
Speed said: "You just had to see the crowd. That says it all, really. A full house has made it a great occasion for him and I am honoured to have been a part of it.
"I would like to thank him for inviting me."
Former Leeds boss Howard Wilkinson brought Radebe to England as a 25-year-old after paying Kaiser Chiefs £250,000 for both him and striker Phil Masinga.
Radebe went on to make 261 appearances for Leeds and was rewarded in style as Elland Road's biggest crowd of the season made his testimonial a day he should never forget.
"Credit for Lucas goes to Geoff Sleight (Leeds chief scout at the time)," said Wilkinson.
"He went to track Phil Masinga but told me 'I think I've found a better player'. He followed him to another game in Australia and we managed to sneak them both out for the same money. It was a good deal."
Lucas Radebe today thanked everybody who made his testimonial "a day I will never forget".
The United legend was gobsmacked to see a 38,000 near capacity crowd turn out at Elland Road to celebrate his ten years at the club.
Asides from being great entertainment and a chance for Lucas to say goodbye as a player, the event helped raise hundreds of thousands of pounds towards the £500,000 he wants to give to charity.
Lucas made it his first job to thank everyone who came to support him as he gave this message to Leeds United fans:
"Thank you to everyone who was here here today and has supported all the good causes.
"It was absolutely fantastic to get a standing ovation and to see the respect the crowd has for me.
"When we first started planning the game I didn't think we would get anywhere near as many people in, but they have shown their commitment to me and I am very honoured.
"This club gave me my big opportunity and from the fans, players to staff, there are so many people I have to thank and I will never be able to thank them all or enough.
"There has always been something special about this club but I swear I didn't know the impact I have had at this club until today, and I now know my input has been respected.
It was a great afternoon for me and my family and every minute was very special for me. It was very emotional and I had to hold back a little bit because I didn't want to be a big softy!
"I now join you all as a fan and I am looking forward to seeing Leeds United back in the Premiership."
The United legend was gobsmacked to see a 38,000 near capacity crowd turn out at Elland Road to celebrate his ten years at the club.
Asides from being great entertainment and a chance for Lucas to say goodbye as a player, the event helped raise hundreds of thousands of pounds towards the £500,000 he wants to give to charity.
Lucas made it his first job to thank everyone who came to support him as he gave this message to Leeds United fans:
"Thank you to everyone who was here here today and has supported all the good causes.
"It was absolutely fantastic to get a standing ovation and to see the respect the crowd has for me.
"When we first started planning the game I didn't think we would get anywhere near as many people in, but they have shown their commitment to me and I am very honoured.
"This club gave me my big opportunity and from the fans, players to staff, there are so many people I have to thank and I will never be able to thank them all or enough.
"There has always been something special about this club but I swear I didn't know the impact I have had at this club until today, and I now know my input has been respected.
It was a great afternoon for me and my family and every minute was very special for me. It was very emotional and I had to hold back a little bit because I didn't want to be a big softy!
"I now join you all as a fan and I am looking forward to seeing Leeds United back in the Premiership."
Vinnie Jones:
"He's a real gentleman and people have come a long way just for him and that shows the respect people have for him.
"He has always worn his heart on his sleeve and that's all these fans want. You give them 100 % and they'll respect you for it."
Olivier Dacourt:
"I was so pleased to come back and see all these people turn out for Lucas. He is a great man and I think he will be feeling very proud right now."
Nigel Martyn:
"He's very laid back but he's someone you look up to and that was definitely the case on the pitch.
"He's held in such high esteem in world football and that's why these players have travelled so far to come and support him."
Jimmy Floyd Hasselbaink:
"It was great to see a full house here for Lucas. The fans were magnificent in the way they thanked him for his time at the club.
"There was a great atmosphere like always at Elland Road.
"He used to enjoy kicking me for fun in training but that's Lucas and you want players like him in your team. I respect him for it though.
"We've kept really good friends after our time at Leeds together."
Bruce Grobelaar
"He is not just revered in Leeds, where he is and deserves to be hugely popular, but throughout the whole of South Africa.
"For 38,000 people to come and see him speaks volumes for him. The man is an ambassador for football and for South Africa.
"He will be very proud and will probably want to thank everyone here himself."
Gary Speed:
"You just had to see the crowd. That says it all, really. A full house has made it a great occasion for him and I am honoured to have been a part of it.
"I would like to thank him for inviting me."
Howard Wilkinson:
"I'm delighted to see so many people turn up and support a man who gave everything he could for this football club. I didn't think he'd be a bad signing for the club back then but I couldn't have begun to imagine he would stay so long or become such a hero to so many people."
"He's a real gentleman and people have come a long way just for him and that shows the respect people have for him.
"He has always worn his heart on his sleeve and that's all these fans want. You give them 100 % and they'll respect you for it."
Olivier Dacourt:
"I was so pleased to come back and see all these people turn out for Lucas. He is a great man and I think he will be feeling very proud right now."
Nigel Martyn:
"He's very laid back but he's someone you look up to and that was definitely the case on the pitch.
"He's held in such high esteem in world football and that's why these players have travelled so far to come and support him."
Jimmy Floyd Hasselbaink:
"It was great to see a full house here for Lucas. The fans were magnificent in the way they thanked him for his time at the club.
"There was a great atmosphere like always at Elland Road.
"He used to enjoy kicking me for fun in training but that's Lucas and you want players like him in your team. I respect him for it though.
"We've kept really good friends after our time at Leeds together."
Bruce Grobelaar
"He is not just revered in Leeds, where he is and deserves to be hugely popular, but throughout the whole of South Africa.
"For 38,000 people to come and see him speaks volumes for him. The man is an ambassador for football and for South Africa.
"He will be very proud and will probably want to thank everyone here himself."
Gary Speed:
"You just had to see the crowd. That says it all, really. A full house has made it a great occasion for him and I am honoured to have been a part of it.
"I would like to thank him for inviting me."
Howard Wilkinson:
"I'm delighted to see so many people turn up and support a man who gave everything he could for this football club. I didn't think he'd be a bad signing for the club back then but I couldn't have begun to imagine he would stay so long or become such a hero to so many people."
"It was a long day, but it was a good day. I was bit nervous because I haven't played for years. I even practiced in the back garden on Saturday! It did bring some memories back. I've been away from here a long time and it shows the strength of support shouldn't be underestimated. Nobody left at the end of the game and I think that said a lot. Lucas is a popular character. I remember when he first came – he didn't realise it was as cold as it is here!" – Gordon Strachan.
"There was a good atmosphere and it was a fantastic occasion. When you've scored some fantastic goals, maybe they expect you to score more. It would have been nice...I think the fans appreciate what I did when I was here, and they know I always gave my best. The fans loved me from the beginning and the feelings were mutual. I scored my most special goals at Leeds. I scored some special ones in Germany, but that one I got for Leeds against Wimbledon was something really special." – Tony Yeboah.
"It was fantastic to go out in front of a crowd like that. I didn't want it to end. It was nice to come back again. On my returns with Coventry and Liverpool I wasn't the most welcome and it was nice to hear people shouting my name. It was Lucas' day, though. It seems a million years ago since he first arrived. I remember the club had problems trying to get his work permit, but once it was sorted they haven't looked back since. As soon as I was asked to play in this, I had to come back." – Gary McAllister.
"It was a great experience. There were some good players and even though it was a slower-paced game, you learnt something. It just shows how popular Lucas is." – Matthew Kilgallon.
"It was a great day for Lucas. He is top man and it was brilliant for him. When you look around and see the likes of Vinnie Jones and Gordon Strachan playing...it was great." – Aaron Lennon.
"I was star struck. It was unbelievable and all credit to Lucas. It just shows what he means to Leeds supporters. It was the biggest crowd of the season and that says it all. It was brilliant playing with some of those players. I'd watched some of them when I was younger and you try and learn from them. Jay Jay Okocha was different class." – Frazer Richardson.
"It was great to be here and to see the place so full. You couldn't have asked for more. It was an enjoyable afternoon and it was good to do some catching up. Lucas got me out of a lot of holes when we played together. He was guiding me. He's a great guy. It was nice to come back to the old place." – David Wetherall.
"The crowd were absolutely magnificent. There was a great atmosphere like there always is. Lucas used to kick me up in the air! On the pitch he does that. That's Lucas, you want a player like him on your team." – Jimmy Floyd Hasselbaink.
"There was a good atmosphere and it was a fantastic occasion. When you've scored some fantastic goals, maybe they expect you to score more. It would have been nice...I think the fans appreciate what I did when I was here, and they know I always gave my best. The fans loved me from the beginning and the feelings were mutual. I scored my most special goals at Leeds. I scored some special ones in Germany, but that one I got for Leeds against Wimbledon was something really special." – Tony Yeboah.
"It was fantastic to go out in front of a crowd like that. I didn't want it to end. It was nice to come back again. On my returns with Coventry and Liverpool I wasn't the most welcome and it was nice to hear people shouting my name. It was Lucas' day, though. It seems a million years ago since he first arrived. I remember the club had problems trying to get his work permit, but once it was sorted they haven't looked back since. As soon as I was asked to play in this, I had to come back." – Gary McAllister.
"It was a great experience. There were some good players and even though it was a slower-paced game, you learnt something. It just shows how popular Lucas is." – Matthew Kilgallon.
"It was a great day for Lucas. He is top man and it was brilliant for him. When you look around and see the likes of Vinnie Jones and Gordon Strachan playing...it was great." – Aaron Lennon.
"I was star struck. It was unbelievable and all credit to Lucas. It just shows what he means to Leeds supporters. It was the biggest crowd of the season and that says it all. It was brilliant playing with some of those players. I'd watched some of them when I was younger and you try and learn from them. Jay Jay Okocha was different class." – Frazer Richardson.
"It was great to be here and to see the place so full. You couldn't have asked for more. It was an enjoyable afternoon and it was good to do some catching up. Lucas got me out of a lot of holes when we played together. He was guiding me. He's a great guy. It was nice to come back to the old place." – David Wetherall.
"The crowd were absolutely magnificent. There was a great atmosphere like there always is. Lucas used to kick me up in the air! On the pitch he does that. That's Lucas, you want a player like him on your team." – Jimmy Floyd Hasselbaink.
Radebe's 2nd testimonial
Players that formed part of the Bafana Bafana team while Lucas Radebe was still playing for the national side will stage a benefit match for the former South African soccer captain at the Absa stadium in Durban next month.
Glyn Binkin, Radebe's manager, says added to these players will be more players from the African continent to make up the two sides. Recently, Leeds United, Radebe's English team of 11 years, held a testimonial game thanking him for the contribution he had made at Elland Road.
Binkin says a number charities stand to benefit from the event.
Players that formed part of the Bafana Bafana team while Lucas Radebe was still playing for the national side will stage a benefit match for the former South African soccer captain at the Absa stadium in Durban next month.
Glyn Binkin, Radebe's manager, says added to these players will be more players from the African continent to make up the two sides. Recently, Leeds United, Radebe's English team of 11 years, held a testimonial game thanking him for the contribution he had made at Elland Road.
Binkin says a number charities stand to benefit from the event.
Old and new South African soccer stars will come together on Saturday night for Bafana legend Lucas Radebe's testimonial match.
A South African Invitation XI will come up against the Lucas Radebe All-Stars at the King's Park Stadium in Durban to mark the end of Radebe's glittering career.
The South African Invitation XI will be run by current coach Stuart Baxter, his assistant Steve Khomphela and former coach Clive Barker, who guided South African to African Nations Cup glory in 1996.
The team contains many Bafana stars and Baxter has made no secret of his desire to give some of his players a chance to prove their fitness before the crunch game against Ghana on June 18.
Jomo Sono will take charge of the Radebe All Stars side, which contains many Bafana heroes from the past such as Andre Arendse, John "Shoes" Moshoeu, Doctor Khumalo, Philemon Masinga, Mark Fish, Neil Tovey, David Nyathi and Mark Williams.
The ex-Leeds United star had his testimonial for the Yorkshire club last month, and he looks set to be treated to another star showing this weekend.
The squads:
SA Invitation XI:
Goalkeepers: Calvin Marlin, Rowen Fernandez and Moeneeb Josephs.
Defenders: Lucas Radebe, Siboniso Gaxa, Peter Petersen, Aaron Mokoena, Nasief Morris, Ricardo Katza, Thabiso Rammile and Bradley Carnell.
Midfielders: Arthur Zwane, Benson Mhlongo, Steven Pienaar, Benedict Vilakazi, Gift Leremi, Reagen Noble, Scara Ngobese and Quinton Fortune.
Strikers: Shaun Bartlett, Siyabonga Nomvete, Lerato Chabangu and Katlego Mphela.
Lucas Radebe All Stars
Goalkeepers: Andre Arendse, Brian Baloyi and Steve Crowley.
Defenders: Lucas Radebe, Lucky Lekgwathi, Mark Fish, Neil Tovey, David Kannemeyer, and David Nyathi.
Midfielders: Doctor Khumalo, John "Shoes" Moshoeu, Jabu Pule, Steve Lekoelea, Thabo Mooki, Jabulani Mendu, Linda Buthelezi, Alfred Phiri, Helman Mkhalele and John Moeti.
Strikers: Philemon Masinga, Peter Ndlovu, Mhabuti Khanyeza, Pollen Ndlanya and Mark Williams
A South African Invitation XI will come up against the Lucas Radebe All-Stars at the King's Park Stadium in Durban to mark the end of Radebe's glittering career.
The South African Invitation XI will be run by current coach Stuart Baxter, his assistant Steve Khomphela and former coach Clive Barker, who guided South African to African Nations Cup glory in 1996.
The team contains many Bafana stars and Baxter has made no secret of his desire to give some of his players a chance to prove their fitness before the crunch game against Ghana on June 18.
Jomo Sono will take charge of the Radebe All Stars side, which contains many Bafana heroes from the past such as Andre Arendse, John "Shoes" Moshoeu, Doctor Khumalo, Philemon Masinga, Mark Fish, Neil Tovey, David Nyathi and Mark Williams.
The ex-Leeds United star had his testimonial for the Yorkshire club last month, and he looks set to be treated to another star showing this weekend.
The squads:
SA Invitation XI:
Goalkeepers: Calvin Marlin, Rowen Fernandez and Moeneeb Josephs.
Defenders: Lucas Radebe, Siboniso Gaxa, Peter Petersen, Aaron Mokoena, Nasief Morris, Ricardo Katza, Thabiso Rammile and Bradley Carnell.
Midfielders: Arthur Zwane, Benson Mhlongo, Steven Pienaar, Benedict Vilakazi, Gift Leremi, Reagen Noble, Scara Ngobese and Quinton Fortune.
Strikers: Shaun Bartlett, Siyabonga Nomvete, Lerato Chabangu and Katlego Mphela.
Lucas Radebe All Stars
Goalkeepers: Andre Arendse, Brian Baloyi and Steve Crowley.
Defenders: Lucas Radebe, Lucky Lekgwathi, Mark Fish, Neil Tovey, David Kannemeyer, and David Nyathi.
Midfielders: Doctor Khumalo, John "Shoes" Moshoeu, Jabu Pule, Steve Lekoelea, Thabo Mooki, Jabulani Mendu, Linda Buthelezi, Alfred Phiri, Helman Mkhalele and John Moeti.
Strikers: Philemon Masinga, Peter Ndlovu, Mhabuti Khanyeza, Pollen Ndlanya and Mark Williams
South Africa's present and pat soccer heroes paid tribute to the former Bafana Bafana skipper Lucas Radebe, in his testimonial match in Durban on Saturday night.
The match was played between a 'SA Invitation XI' and a 'Radebe XI', which the latter won 3-2.
The 'SA Invitation XI' which started the first half was by and large a Bafana Bafana side, who started very cautiously, playing more as if the game was a competitive fixture, rather than a friendly, possibly due to the fact that some of the players were out to cement their place in the national squad to play Ghana next week.
The early chances fell to the Radebe XI, with Alfred Phiri coming close after being put through by Doc Khumalo, while Steven Pienaar came close with a long range shot for the Invitation team in the 24th minute.
The Radebe XI had many of the players from the 1996 African Cup of Nations winning team in the side, including striker Mark Williams, who looked very lively up front.
There was no score at half time.
The second half saw the teams changed around, with many substitutes coming on, while Radebe also switched to the Invitation Team.
Seven minutes into the second half and the goal finally came when Benson Mhlongo pounced on a loose ball on the edge of the area and fired home with his left foot for the Invitation side.
Zimbabwean Benjamin Mwaruwari equalized 15 minutes after a good combination between by John "Shoes" Mosheou and Thabo "Tsiki Tsiki" Mooki.
In the 80th minute Bafana striker Katlego Mphela put the Invitation side ahead with a well taken header, but just a minute later Mwaruwari brought the scores level again.
But Mphela was not finished yet and in the 85th minute he scored the winner when he struck with a great shot which flew into the top corner of the net.
The match was played between a 'SA Invitation XI' and a 'Radebe XI', which the latter won 3-2.
The 'SA Invitation XI' which started the first half was by and large a Bafana Bafana side, who started very cautiously, playing more as if the game was a competitive fixture, rather than a friendly, possibly due to the fact that some of the players were out to cement their place in the national squad to play Ghana next week.
The early chances fell to the Radebe XI, with Alfred Phiri coming close after being put through by Doc Khumalo, while Steven Pienaar came close with a long range shot for the Invitation team in the 24th minute.
The Radebe XI had many of the players from the 1996 African Cup of Nations winning team in the side, including striker Mark Williams, who looked very lively up front.
There was no score at half time.
The second half saw the teams changed around, with many substitutes coming on, while Radebe also switched to the Invitation Team.
Seven minutes into the second half and the goal finally came when Benson Mhlongo pounced on a loose ball on the edge of the area and fired home with his left foot for the Invitation side.
Zimbabwean Benjamin Mwaruwari equalized 15 minutes after a good combination between by John "Shoes" Mosheou and Thabo "Tsiki Tsiki" Mooki.
In the 80th minute Bafana striker Katlego Mphela put the Invitation side ahead with a well taken header, but just a minute later Mwaruwari brought the scores level again.
But Mphela was not finished yet and in the 85th minute he scored the winner when he struck with a great shot which flew into the top corner of the net.
Leeds United's South African star, Lucas Radebe, will end his testimonial celebration of ten years service to the club with a special 'Tribute Dinner' at Elland Road on 9th October.
Throughout his testimonial year Lucas has raised thousands for charity, the tribute dinner is one of two final fundraising event in his quest to raise £500,000 for eight good causes, both in the UK and South Africa.
The 'Tribute Dinner', hosted by BBC's Ray Stubbs, will feature a luxury meal, video highlights of Lucas's 10 years at Leeds and a Live Chat with Lucas and a host of past and present United stars. BBC Two 'Deadringers' star impressionist Kevin Connelly and former Premier League referee Jeff Winter will provide the entertainment.
On Monday 10th October the last event of the fundraising year will take place in the form of star- studded charity golf day at the championship Moor Allerton Golf Club, Leeds.
Signed from South African side Kaiser Chiefs in 1994 alongside fellow countryman, Phil Masinga, Lucas has made over 200 appearances for United and won 69 caps for South Africa to become the Bafana Bafana's most-capped player.
Internationally, he led South Africa to victory in the 1996 African Nations Cup and followed this achievement by leading his country to their first ever World Cup finals in 1998. He again led his country to the 2002 World Cup in Japan & Korea.
On a domestic front his career highlight was undoubtedly taking part in United's 2001 Champions League venture, which ended at the semi-final stage.
Tickets for the evening are £85 per person + VAT or £800 for a table of 10 + VAT
For more information about Lucas Radebe's Testimonial Dinner or to apply for tickets, click here.
Click here to download an application form
Lucas's Charity Benefactors
SOS Childrens Villages
A worldwide charity providing a whole living environment for orphaned children. The mission statement of SOS is "Helping children who have nothing and no one"?which says it all. The charity has strong ties with FIFA and has been recently confirmed as FIFA's charity partner for the World cup 2006.
Open Arms Malawi
Malawi suffers from one of the highest recorded incidences of HIV/AIDS.
Open Arms Infant Home is a transition home providing 40 babies orphaned as a result of Aids with food, medicine and security. It also acts as a hospice to those babies who carry the HIV virus. Open Arms is totally dependent on donations to maintain its' upkeep.
Starfish
Starfish is a registered charity in the United Kingdom that supports children in South Africa who have been orphaned or made vulnerable to HIV/AIDS. By 2010 an estimated 2.3 million children will be orphaned as a result of AIDS in South Africa. If the orphaned and vulnerable children are not cared for, nurtured and educated, they will become a lost generation.
Instead of being overwhelmed by the magnitude of the HIV/AIDS pandemic, Starfish believes in helping each child, one at a time.
Lineham Farm
Lineham Farm is a residential centre on the northern outskirts of Leeds offering rural activities and outdoor pursuits to children and young people from less privileged communities in our region.
Martin House
A hospice for children and young people providing a caring and positive environment. One of still only a very few dedicated hospices for young people, Martin House operates almost entirely on donated funds.
Variety Club of Great Britain
The Variety Club, Yorkshire region, began over 40 years ago. It has one
goal- to improve the lives of sick, disabled and disadvantaged children throughout the region. It gives donations, large and small, to provide Sunshine Coaches, wheelchairs, specialist equipment and numerous other projects to enrich the lives of children less fortunate than most
Childline
Childline is the UK's free, 24-hour helpline for children in distress or danger. Trained volunteer counsellors comfort, advise and protect children and young people who may feel they have nowhere else to turn. Everyday around 4,000 children call Childline, but lack of funds means that only 1,800 of them can get through.
Teenage Cancer Unit at Leeds Teaching Hospitals
The six-bed Teenage Cancer Unit at St James's provides a specially designed service that delivers expert medical, therapeutic, supportive and social care in a 'home from home' environment for teenagers and young adults with cancer and their families across Yorkshire.
The Unit was named winner at the NHS Health and Social Care Awards 2003- New Hope Award category. LTHT is the hub of children's cancer treatment in West, North and East Yorkshire and one of 20 centres in the UK.
Throughout his testimonial year Lucas has raised thousands for charity, the tribute dinner is one of two final fundraising event in his quest to raise £500,000 for eight good causes, both in the UK and South Africa.
The 'Tribute Dinner', hosted by BBC's Ray Stubbs, will feature a luxury meal, video highlights of Lucas's 10 years at Leeds and a Live Chat with Lucas and a host of past and present United stars. BBC Two 'Deadringers' star impressionist Kevin Connelly and former Premier League referee Jeff Winter will provide the entertainment.
On Monday 10th October the last event of the fundraising year will take place in the form of star- studded charity golf day at the championship Moor Allerton Golf Club, Leeds.
Signed from South African side Kaiser Chiefs in 1994 alongside fellow countryman, Phil Masinga, Lucas has made over 200 appearances for United and won 69 caps for South Africa to become the Bafana Bafana's most-capped player.
Internationally, he led South Africa to victory in the 1996 African Nations Cup and followed this achievement by leading his country to their first ever World Cup finals in 1998. He again led his country to the 2002 World Cup in Japan & Korea.
On a domestic front his career highlight was undoubtedly taking part in United's 2001 Champions League venture, which ended at the semi-final stage.
Tickets for the evening are £85 per person + VAT or £800 for a table of 10 + VAT
For more information about Lucas Radebe's Testimonial Dinner or to apply for tickets, click here.
Click here to download an application form
Lucas's Charity Benefactors
SOS Childrens Villages
A worldwide charity providing a whole living environment for orphaned children. The mission statement of SOS is "Helping children who have nothing and no one"?which says it all. The charity has strong ties with FIFA and has been recently confirmed as FIFA's charity partner for the World cup 2006.
Open Arms Malawi
Malawi suffers from one of the highest recorded incidences of HIV/AIDS.
Open Arms Infant Home is a transition home providing 40 babies orphaned as a result of Aids with food, medicine and security. It also acts as a hospice to those babies who carry the HIV virus. Open Arms is totally dependent on donations to maintain its' upkeep.
Starfish
Starfish is a registered charity in the United Kingdom that supports children in South Africa who have been orphaned or made vulnerable to HIV/AIDS. By 2010 an estimated 2.3 million children will be orphaned as a result of AIDS in South Africa. If the orphaned and vulnerable children are not cared for, nurtured and educated, they will become a lost generation.
Instead of being overwhelmed by the magnitude of the HIV/AIDS pandemic, Starfish believes in helping each child, one at a time.
Lineham Farm
Lineham Farm is a residential centre on the northern outskirts of Leeds offering rural activities and outdoor pursuits to children and young people from less privileged communities in our region.
Martin House
A hospice for children and young people providing a caring and positive environment. One of still only a very few dedicated hospices for young people, Martin House operates almost entirely on donated funds.
Variety Club of Great Britain
The Variety Club, Yorkshire region, began over 40 years ago. It has one
goal- to improve the lives of sick, disabled and disadvantaged children throughout the region. It gives donations, large and small, to provide Sunshine Coaches, wheelchairs, specialist equipment and numerous other projects to enrich the lives of children less fortunate than most
Childline
Childline is the UK's free, 24-hour helpline for children in distress or danger. Trained volunteer counsellors comfort, advise and protect children and young people who may feel they have nowhere else to turn. Everyday around 4,000 children call Childline, but lack of funds means that only 1,800 of them can get through.
Teenage Cancer Unit at Leeds Teaching Hospitals
The six-bed Teenage Cancer Unit at St James's provides a specially designed service that delivers expert medical, therapeutic, supportive and social care in a 'home from home' environment for teenagers and young adults with cancer and their families across Yorkshire.
The Unit was named winner at the NHS Health and Social Care Awards 2003- New Hope Award category. LTHT is the hub of children's cancer treatment in West, North and East Yorkshire and one of 20 centres in the UK.
A selection of celebrities and former Leeds United stars, will be turning out for Lucas Radebe’s Charity Golf Day at Moor Allerton Golf Club, which is the South African star’s last testimonial event.
The day’s activities (Monday 10th October) start with 20 teams of four teeing off for an 18-hole Shotgun Start from 11.00am, which includes the chance to ‘Beat the Balls off the Pro’, and will be concluded by an early evening buffet and prize presentation.
Each team, made up from local businesses, will also have the opportunity to play with attending celebrities during the day, which will continue to help raise money for eight of Lucas’s chosen charities in the UK and South Africa.
The event, which is sponsored by the South African Tourist Board, follows the highly successful testimonial match between an ex-Leeds United XI and a World XI team, which was played earlier this year in front of a sell-out 38,000 crowd at Elland Road.
Lucas Radebe, said: “I enjoyed ten fantastic years at Leeds United and was fortunate to play alongside some of the best players in the modern game, both domestically and internationally.
“I am grateful to everyone who is taking part in Monday’s Golf Day, which should be a fitting end to my testimonial year. Through my various fundraising activities this year, I am well on the way to raising the £500,000 target I set for my eight chosen charities, which I am thrilled about.”
Signed from South African side Kaiser Chiefs in 1994 alongside fellow countryman, Phil Masinga, Lucas made over 200 appearances for United and won
69 caps for South Africa to become the Bafana Bafana’s most-capped player.
Internationally, he led South Africa to victory in the 1996 African Nations Cup and followed this achievement by leading his country to their first ever World Cup finals in 1998. He again led his country to the 2002 World Cup in Japan & Korea.
On a domestic front his career highlight was undoubtedly taking part in United’s 2001 Champions League venture, which ended at the semi-final stage.
The day’s activities (Monday 10th October) start with 20 teams of four teeing off for an 18-hole Shotgun Start from 11.00am, which includes the chance to ‘Beat the Balls off the Pro’, and will be concluded by an early evening buffet and prize presentation.
Each team, made up from local businesses, will also have the opportunity to play with attending celebrities during the day, which will continue to help raise money for eight of Lucas’s chosen charities in the UK and South Africa.
The event, which is sponsored by the South African Tourist Board, follows the highly successful testimonial match between an ex-Leeds United XI and a World XI team, which was played earlier this year in front of a sell-out 38,000 crowd at Elland Road.
Lucas Radebe, said: “I enjoyed ten fantastic years at Leeds United and was fortunate to play alongside some of the best players in the modern game, both domestically and internationally.
“I am grateful to everyone who is taking part in Monday’s Golf Day, which should be a fitting end to my testimonial year. Through my various fundraising activities this year, I am well on the way to raising the £500,000 target I set for my eight chosen charities, which I am thrilled about.”
Signed from South African side Kaiser Chiefs in 1994 alongside fellow countryman, Phil Masinga, Lucas made over 200 appearances for United and won
69 caps for South Africa to become the Bafana Bafana’s most-capped player.
Internationally, he led South Africa to victory in the 1996 African Nations Cup and followed this achievement by leading his country to their first ever World Cup finals in 1998. He again led his country to the 2002 World Cup in Japan & Korea.
On a domestic front his career highlight was undoubtedly taking part in United’s 2001 Champions League venture, which ended at the semi-final stage.
Just watching his testimonial DVD, at the start it shows him coming on as a sub, you can hear the leeds fans in the background singing "shit ground no fans" to the other team 
QUOTE
The wife of former Leeds United legend Lucas Radebe has died after a long battle with cancer.
Feziwe Faith Radebe, aged 34, passed away in the early hours of this morning after battling bowel cancer.
Leeds United legend, Lucas was said to be"devastated" by his wife's death.
The family had returned to their hometown of Johannesburg, South Africa, some months ago and their house in Linton, near Wetherby, is believed to be up for sale.
Feziwe was diagnosed with bowel cancer just four days after one of the happiest days of Lucas's life - his all-star charity testimonial at Elland Road, which drew a crowd of 38,000 to the stadium in May 2005.
She is is survived by her husband and their two children, Lucas Hugo, nine, and Owami, aged four; as well as her parents Eunice and Lesley Ngqobe and sister, Thandiwe.
Feziwe Faith Radebe, aged 34, passed away in the early hours of this morning after battling bowel cancer.
Leeds United legend, Lucas was said to be"devastated" by his wife's death.
The family had returned to their hometown of Johannesburg, South Africa, some months ago and their house in Linton, near Wetherby, is believed to be up for sale.
Feziwe was diagnosed with bowel cancer just four days after one of the happiest days of Lucas's life - his all-star charity testimonial at Elland Road, which drew a crowd of 38,000 to the stadium in May 2005.
She is is survived by her husband and their two children, Lucas Hugo, nine, and Owami, aged four; as well as her parents Eunice and Lesley Ngqobe and sister, Thandiwe.
RIP
RIP
rip
Sad news.
RIP
RIP
RIP Feziwe
Totally gutted when I heard this - poor Lucas and those poor little boys. It's cruel and shit
Totally gutted when I heard this - poor Lucas and those poor little boys. It's cruel and shit
Wow, still so young too. RIP. Life can be so hard.
34 No time to go
No time to go
Just found out that messages of condolence and support for the family may be sent to the
following e-mail address:
lradebe@footballfirst.co.za
following e-mail address:
lradebe@footballfirst.co.za
Hope he pulls through
I hope he's OK! Like he hasn't had enough worries this year. Stay strong, Chief 
He's supposed to be at home recovering following minor surgery.
He's going to be guest of honour on the 14th March
QUOTE(Proud to be Leeds @ Jan 29 2009, 07:20 PM) 
He's going to be guest of honour on the 14th March
OH NO! I was about to say, I'll go to this game just to breathe the same air as The Chief, but I have a competition that day. BOOOOHOOOO.
Available for FREE in PDF format as A3 poster, A4 poster, A5 flyer, and A4 sticker sheet at thebeatengeneration.co.uk to download, print out, stick up and take along on Saturday March 14th.
His father passed away at the weekend
So he's postponing his trip to Leeds.
So he's postponing his trip to Leeds.
Oh god, that's so sad about his dad! It's so cruel that such an brilliant guy is dealt such tragedy in one year.
As always Lucas, we're all thinking of you!
As always Lucas, we're all thinking of you!
With the Hail to the Chief thing being postponed to the 15th May (ie a day after Millwall @ home) I'm hoping he can make some kind of appearance at the game.
Well he was going to be there
http://www.leedsunited.com/page/LatestNews...1654674,00.html
Hope he gets well soon!
http://www.leedsunited.com/page/LatestNews...1654674,00.html
Hope he gets well soon!
QUOTE(Proud to be Leeds @ May 11 2009, 02:48 PM)
Well he was going to be there
http://www.leedsunited.com/page/LatestNews...1654674,00.html
Hope he gets well soon!
http://www.leedsunited.com/page/LatestNews...1654674,00.html
Hope he gets well soon!
i feel so sorry for the chief, he's given so much to other people in his life, yet his own life goes from bad to worse.
Hope he heared the chants last night!
Lucas on the confederations cup coverage (just doing an interview) on BBC3 looking well!
Shaved his head too, going for the LL look i think .
Shaved his head too, going for the LL look i think .
cant believe that stuff has all happened to him, its sickening that so much can happen in such a short time and himself to suffer illness. heard him doing a interview kind of recently think it was around a month ago, sounds like a nice guy. 
Anyone had a pint of Radebeer?
Is it still on sale? I thought it was a short term thing?
He is one of the faves to become the new South African coach.
QUOTE(Proud to be Leeds @ Oct 20 2009, 12:18 PM)
He is one of the faves to become the new South African coach.
Yey Lucas
QUOTE
Sport.co.uk caught up with legendary Leeds United centre-back Lucas Radebe at the World Travel Market at London ExCel, where he was appearing as South Africa Tourism’s ambassador for the FIFA 2010 World Cup. A good choice he is too as, aside from being one of Leeds’ favourite sons to this day, he is an absolutely delightful bloke…
When you were growing up in South Africa, could you ever have envisaged that one day you’d become one of the country’s most capped footballers of all time?
LR: To be honest, we never grew up knowing what we were going to do, especially during the Apartheid days. We were confined to a small space in Soweto so we didn’t have any exposure to international football or international events. Football was just a hobby; [we played with] any piece of rag we could find just to play the game. It’s a god-given talent, to be honest. As time went on, especially [once we had] our democracy, I think that’s when everything opened up for us. Talent was being scouted overseas and there were opportunities. We were representing the country. It was tough, but Apartheid moulded us nicely, moulded the character that we have.
You started out as a goalkeeper. How hard was it to make the transition first to midfield and then to defence?
LR: It wasn’t hard because I was enjoying the game. When I started being a goalkeeper, I think it was one of the teams that said “no, we don’t have a goalkeeper” and I was there thinking “let me just go in goal.” I was never really regarded as a goalie but I went in goal and did well and, after that, I got kicked in the face. That’s when I changed! I lost my teeth, my tongue was cut and my nose…so I was out for about three months. Then I realised that it’s so dangerous to be a ‘keeper so I started playing midfield and defence, and that’s where I excelled.
What was it like to go from someone trying to shoot you dead [while playing for Kaizer Chiefs in 1991] to captaining a Premier League team?
LR: It was tough, because it was my first experience of international football, especially my first trip out of South Africa to England which, to be honest, I didn’t know anything about. I didn’t know anything about Leeds; I didn’t know what to expect or what kind of club it is, but I knew it was a Premier League team and I really appreciated the opportunity. In South Africa we were just part-time footballers, so it was hard to acclimatise, not only to the game but also to the weather conditions, to settle. I was always homesick but Phil [Masinga, the South African forward who joined Leeds at the same time as Radebe] and I really appreciated the opportunity and we thought that we might as well fail having tried than having not tried. We had a transition when George Graham came in and gave me the captaincy for pure hard work, and I just wanted to do the best I can and give a hundred per cent commitment to the club.
Sport.co.uk had a great chat with George Graham the other week. What would you say to him if you saw him now?
LR: I’d like to say thank you for the opportunity because he’s one of the best… actually, he is the best coach that I ever worked under. He’s one of the coaches that made me who I am, especially as a defender. We had a great relationship; I know most of the players said I was a long, lost son of George! But I really enjoyed working under George and he shouldn’t have left Leeds [when he did].
How frustrating were the injuries you suffered just as Leeds were emerging as a force in English football?
LR: It was really frustrating because it wasn’t small injuries; it was major injuries where I’d miss the whole season or [at least] a few good months, especially when the club were at the stage where they were in Europe and challenging for the league. So it’s hard to go in every day when you’re sitting and looking at the players playing or training and you are in the treatment room. You always want to come back early but it is important to make a comeback when you are right. You have to follow instructions and make sure that, when you come back, you come back stronger than before.
Your nickname is The Chief, and your name still reverberates around Elland Road to this day…
LR: That’s amazing! I wonder, what did I do? (Laughs)
What was the proudest moment of your playing career?
LR: My testimonial. I wanted a testimonial game where they showed respect, because we don’t know what impact we make on people [when we’re] on the field of play, but you see after. It was a great opportunity for me to say thanks to the fans as well, for making my dream come true to play at the highest level. I know we didn’t win any silverware but we took the club to the highest level.
Your testimonial match was the highest attendance of that season, wasn’t it?
LR: It was! I mean, that shows what they think of me as a player because, to be honest, I was not only involved on the field of play but also outside the field of play with different projects in the community.
You’re a great ambassador for the game and you have put a lot back into it. How proud are you now to see the World Cup going to South Africa next year?
LR: I’m jealous that I’m not going to be part of the playing staff! But I’m very proud because, as a pro, that’s where you want to play; you want to play football at the highest level against the best in the world. Back in our grounds in Soweto, it makes us proud to be given the responsibility of organizing it. I think we deserve it, with the achievements we have through the years.
I’m an Everton supporter…
LR: (Cheerfully) The Toffees!
…what do you think of Steven Pienaar?
LR: He’s the best player we have. Absolutely brilliant. I think we’re banking on him to get the team together and to make a difference. We want more of Steve Pienaar; he’s an example to most of the youngsters back home.
Do you support England’s bid for the 2018 World Cup?
LR: Absolutely. The atmosphere is electric and they’ve got great facilities. I mean, this is the home of football; it’s a religion here. People [in England] support not only teams but they support the game, so you can imagine having the World Cup here. It’s already a success before it could be hosted by England. The people are friendly. [When I was at Leeds], there was Bradford and Huddersfield where the accent is different but it’s the same language. It’s absolutely fantastic and I had a great time. Whoever experiences that will never forget it.
Who was the best player you ever played against?
LR: Alan Shearer. Very difficult player, you know, with the referee on his side (laughs). For us, it was a pain every time we were playing against him, trying to stop him. Unfortunately, he was scoring each and every time he came to Elland Road! So it was a task to stop him but, at the end of the day, we’d watch him for most of the game and he’d get a goal by the end of it. He was absolutely brilliant; he was watching all the moves, to position himself.
Was he always full of nasty digs, knocks and niggling elbows?
LR: He was, to be hounest, and he was always getting attention from the referee, all the decisions going his way! But he was a great player and he brought the best out of us defenders because we wanted to stop him. He’s a legend and he was the model pro, to the youngsters and to his fellow players.
Who was the best player you ever played with?
LR: There’s a few, [like] Gordon Strachan, but I think it mainly was Nigel Martyn. Absolute gentleman, and I think an inspiration to the team leading from the back. He was like a big brother to all of us, always guiding us. He was an absolutely brilliant ‘keeper and it’s a shame that England never really gave him the chance when he was still in his prime.
Leeds are going well at the top of League One. Are they on the way back?
LR: Yes, absolutely. I think they deserve to get up again. It’s a massive club with a great support; you can see that with their support at the moment, [which brings higher attendances than] some teams in the upper divisions. They deserve to come up. It was sad to see them going down but I think that now they are working their way up. They’re showing great signs of recovery and surely they will very soon be in the Premier League again.
Do you manage to go to any games?
LR: I would love to if I’m able to, hopefully next season when they are playing in the Championship! I would love to be there cheering them on for the first game, even if I don’t know any of the players now because everybody’s gone. But at least Leeds is still there and I really appreciate what they’ve done for me.
And, finally, what does the future hold for Lucas Radebe?
LR: I’ve always said that I want to give back to our country, whether it’s in terms of football or development: that’s what I want to do, because they gave me the opportunity. They lifted me up to be where I am today and I’ll show after the World Cup when I get involved in the game and help give a chance to those who’ve got dreams and ambitions about playing abroad at the highest level. I will do not club level coaching but international coaching, of the technical aspect of the game.
Lucas Radebe, thank you.
When you were growing up in South Africa, could you ever have envisaged that one day you’d become one of the country’s most capped footballers of all time?
LR: To be honest, we never grew up knowing what we were going to do, especially during the Apartheid days. We were confined to a small space in Soweto so we didn’t have any exposure to international football or international events. Football was just a hobby; [we played with] any piece of rag we could find just to play the game. It’s a god-given talent, to be honest. As time went on, especially [once we had] our democracy, I think that’s when everything opened up for us. Talent was being scouted overseas and there were opportunities. We were representing the country. It was tough, but Apartheid moulded us nicely, moulded the character that we have.
You started out as a goalkeeper. How hard was it to make the transition first to midfield and then to defence?
LR: It wasn’t hard because I was enjoying the game. When I started being a goalkeeper, I think it was one of the teams that said “no, we don’t have a goalkeeper” and I was there thinking “let me just go in goal.” I was never really regarded as a goalie but I went in goal and did well and, after that, I got kicked in the face. That’s when I changed! I lost my teeth, my tongue was cut and my nose…so I was out for about three months. Then I realised that it’s so dangerous to be a ‘keeper so I started playing midfield and defence, and that’s where I excelled.
What was it like to go from someone trying to shoot you dead [while playing for Kaizer Chiefs in 1991] to captaining a Premier League team?
LR: It was tough, because it was my first experience of international football, especially my first trip out of South Africa to England which, to be honest, I didn’t know anything about. I didn’t know anything about Leeds; I didn’t know what to expect or what kind of club it is, but I knew it was a Premier League team and I really appreciated the opportunity. In South Africa we were just part-time footballers, so it was hard to acclimatise, not only to the game but also to the weather conditions, to settle. I was always homesick but Phil [Masinga, the South African forward who joined Leeds at the same time as Radebe] and I really appreciated the opportunity and we thought that we might as well fail having tried than having not tried. We had a transition when George Graham came in and gave me the captaincy for pure hard work, and I just wanted to do the best I can and give a hundred per cent commitment to the club.
Sport.co.uk had a great chat with George Graham the other week. What would you say to him if you saw him now?
LR: I’d like to say thank you for the opportunity because he’s one of the best… actually, he is the best coach that I ever worked under. He’s one of the coaches that made me who I am, especially as a defender. We had a great relationship; I know most of the players said I was a long, lost son of George! But I really enjoyed working under George and he shouldn’t have left Leeds [when he did].
How frustrating were the injuries you suffered just as Leeds were emerging as a force in English football?
LR: It was really frustrating because it wasn’t small injuries; it was major injuries where I’d miss the whole season or [at least] a few good months, especially when the club were at the stage where they were in Europe and challenging for the league. So it’s hard to go in every day when you’re sitting and looking at the players playing or training and you are in the treatment room. You always want to come back early but it is important to make a comeback when you are right. You have to follow instructions and make sure that, when you come back, you come back stronger than before.
Your nickname is The Chief, and your name still reverberates around Elland Road to this day…
LR: That’s amazing! I wonder, what did I do? (Laughs)
What was the proudest moment of your playing career?
LR: My testimonial. I wanted a testimonial game where they showed respect, because we don’t know what impact we make on people [when we’re] on the field of play, but you see after. It was a great opportunity for me to say thanks to the fans as well, for making my dream come true to play at the highest level. I know we didn’t win any silverware but we took the club to the highest level.
Your testimonial match was the highest attendance of that season, wasn’t it?
LR: It was! I mean, that shows what they think of me as a player because, to be honest, I was not only involved on the field of play but also outside the field of play with different projects in the community.
You’re a great ambassador for the game and you have put a lot back into it. How proud are you now to see the World Cup going to South Africa next year?
LR: I’m jealous that I’m not going to be part of the playing staff! But I’m very proud because, as a pro, that’s where you want to play; you want to play football at the highest level against the best in the world. Back in our grounds in Soweto, it makes us proud to be given the responsibility of organizing it. I think we deserve it, with the achievements we have through the years.
I’m an Everton supporter…
LR: (Cheerfully) The Toffees!
…what do you think of Steven Pienaar?
LR: He’s the best player we have. Absolutely brilliant. I think we’re banking on him to get the team together and to make a difference. We want more of Steve Pienaar; he’s an example to most of the youngsters back home.
Do you support England’s bid for the 2018 World Cup?
LR: Absolutely. The atmosphere is electric and they’ve got great facilities. I mean, this is the home of football; it’s a religion here. People [in England] support not only teams but they support the game, so you can imagine having the World Cup here. It’s already a success before it could be hosted by England. The people are friendly. [When I was at Leeds], there was Bradford and Huddersfield where the accent is different but it’s the same language. It’s absolutely fantastic and I had a great time. Whoever experiences that will never forget it.
Who was the best player you ever played against?
LR: Alan Shearer. Very difficult player, you know, with the referee on his side (laughs). For us, it was a pain every time we were playing against him, trying to stop him. Unfortunately, he was scoring each and every time he came to Elland Road! So it was a task to stop him but, at the end of the day, we’d watch him for most of the game and he’d get a goal by the end of it. He was absolutely brilliant; he was watching all the moves, to position himself.
Was he always full of nasty digs, knocks and niggling elbows?
LR: He was, to be hounest, and he was always getting attention from the referee, all the decisions going his way! But he was a great player and he brought the best out of us defenders because we wanted to stop him. He’s a legend and he was the model pro, to the youngsters and to his fellow players.
Who was the best player you ever played with?
LR: There’s a few, [like] Gordon Strachan, but I think it mainly was Nigel Martyn. Absolute gentleman, and I think an inspiration to the team leading from the back. He was like a big brother to all of us, always guiding us. He was an absolutely brilliant ‘keeper and it’s a shame that England never really gave him the chance when he was still in his prime.
Leeds are going well at the top of League One. Are they on the way back?
LR: Yes, absolutely. I think they deserve to get up again. It’s a massive club with a great support; you can see that with their support at the moment, [which brings higher attendances than] some teams in the upper divisions. They deserve to come up. It was sad to see them going down but I think that now they are working their way up. They’re showing great signs of recovery and surely they will very soon be in the Premier League again.
Do you manage to go to any games?
LR: I would love to if I’m able to, hopefully next season when they are playing in the Championship! I would love to be there cheering them on for the first game, even if I don’t know any of the players now because everybody’s gone. But at least Leeds is still there and I really appreciate what they’ve done for me.
And, finally, what does the future hold for Lucas Radebe?
LR: I’ve always said that I want to give back to our country, whether it’s in terms of football or development: that’s what I want to do, because they gave me the opportunity. They lifted me up to be where I am today and I’ll show after the World Cup when I get involved in the game and help give a chance to those who’ve got dreams and ambitions about playing abroad at the highest level. I will do not club level coaching but international coaching, of the technical aspect of the game.
Lucas Radebe, thank you.
What a chap
http://www.tribalfootball.com/radebe-lined...s-return-460581
I'll believe it when I see it, but would be awesome if true.
I'll believe it when I see it, but would be awesome if true.
It's been a rumour for a while. Usually when Tribal Football get hold of it, is when it's a no go, cos they are fucking shit. But i really hope it's true
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