Leeds boss Gary McAllister carried out a major coup on the eve of the play-off final in May when securing the signing of midfielder Andy Robinson from Swansea City. The 28-year-old merseysider could have opted to play Championship football with the Swans, after playing a major role in their title winning campaign.
However, the chance to join the Whites proved impossible to turn down, even though it would ultimately mean another stint in League One for Robinson. 'I'm delighted to be joining Leeds,' he said at the time. 'It's a massive name in football and a massive club and it's great that I'm going to be a part of that.'
It wasn't until the age of 23 that Robinson got his break in league football, being snapped up by local club Tranmere Rovers from non-league Cammell Laird. However, Rovers overlooked his potential without giving him a chance, leaving Swansea free to pick up what would turn out to be the find of the season ahead of the 2003-04 campaign.
Robinson justified the faith shown in him by landing the club's Player of the Year award by the end of his first season. During his time time in Wales the midfielder, famed for his spectacular free-kicks, hit an impressive 43 league goal in 192 appearances.
He has already made a big impression on his new team mates during pre-season, with United right-back Frazer Richardson enthusing: 'He's quite a handful and we're lucky to have him in our team. Hopefully he can cause damage for us this season.' With Robinson supplying the ammunition for free-scoring Jermaine Beckford, supporters can look forward to the coming season with a good deal of optimism.
