Throughout Leeds United’s infamous fall from grace, whilst attempting to navigate troubled and turbulent waters, opposing fans around the country have gleefully proclaimed: ‘You’re not famous any more'.

As we dropped through the Championship and into League One for the first time in our proud history, it was interesting to hear those fans singing a selection of ‘Leeds United’ songs during matches. We however, didn’t have any song that mentioned whichever opponents the fixture list had thrown our way for the first time in many a long year. How ironic that those singing our name, and not that of their own sides, were helping to ensure that Leeds United will always have an enduring fame.

Ironic, too, that those very sides have been falling over themselves to cash in on our very fame throughout the season. Clubs have seized on the opportunity to jump on OUR bandwagon. ‘Special Offer – purchase tickets for games X and Y to ensure you can be allocated a ticket for the Leeds game’ has been a common approach.

''Clubs have seized on the opportunity to jump on OUR bandwagon. 'Purchase tickets for games X and Y to ensure you can be allocated a ticket for the Leeds game'''


This week it’s Carlisle United’s turn to cash in on the Leeds United phenomenon. The Cumbrians are expecting their biggest crowd for 31 years against us and record gate receipts into the bargain. It is a story that has been repeated for every United away match throughout the season. The highest gate at each and every ground we have visited was against…well, it’s not difficult to work out.

Maybe it’s time to forgive and forget those faceless clubs who thrust in the knife by ensuring we became the first club to ever begin a season 15 points adrift at the bottom. Yes it’s true, they were looking after their own interests, but maybe it wasn’t out of hatred, maybe it was out of love. They want to keep us around, and milk more success from Dennis Wise's Golden Cow before it takes flight from their barren land.

So to Carlisle United and the rest of League One, enjoy your 90 minutes of fame, brought to you courtesy of the world-renowned brand that is Leeds United FC.

Are the so-called lower clubs cashing on the Leeds United brand? Post a comment below or submit an article to Sportingo.