Summer signatures

The 2013/14 Football League Championship looked bright for Leeds United as the summer drew to a close. It was the beginning of  new manager Brian McDermott's first full season in charge and it appeared promising after he secured the signatures of four of his summer transfer targets before the window shut.

New arrival Luke Murphy at Elland Road.
                                  Picture from http://www.yorkshireeveningpost.co.uk

It quickly became apparent that the funds McDermott had hoped for, and by some accounts promised, were not available. The new owner's resounding policy of  'one in, one out' echoed endlessly throughout the transfer window. This came as a shock to many, especially after GFH Capital's takeover was so drawn out. The policy was even more difficult to comply with partly because many of the players recruited by former manager Neil Warnock were either not wanted by other clubs or their value had decreased dramatically. Despite the apparent lack of funds, McDermott made do. He worked his magic and carefully selected players from his wish list that he was in a position to make an approach for. His first trick was to shock the Championship by beating Blackburn to the post by signing the young and highly rated Crewe Alexandra midfield captain Luke Murphy for £1M. The United boss also dipped into the pool of League 1 talent to sign the towering six foot six figure of Matt Smith on a free transfer from Oldham Athletic.

Defender Scott Wootton signed for £1m.
                                 Picture from http://www.yorkshireeveningpost.co.uk

Former Irish international Noel Hunt once again linked up with his old Reading boss after a free transfer was agreed. The final arrival at Elland Road was a somewhat unexpected one, in the form of Manchester United youth product Scott Wootton. The talented centre back was frustrated during his time at the Premier League club and a lack of first team opportunities led to several loan spells for the youngster. However, with Premier League and even Champions' League experience, Wootton was a welcome addition to a young and largely inexperienced central defence. McDermott snapped up Wootton for a fee of 1M, despite several clubs showing interest.