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We're heading live to Lothar Matthaus' first press conference as Leeds United manager.
Journalist:
Welcome to England Lothar, I'd like to ask you what are your objectives for the season?
Lothar Matthaus:
Our objective is to be promoted to the Premier League, that is our only objective and one that I am positive we will achieve.
Journalist:
Many fans are worried that the recent acquisition of their club will be detrimental to its history, we've seen in the past that Red Bull like to 'wipe out' a club's history and start fresh. Is this the case for Leeds and what long-term plan do Red Bull have for the club?
Lothar Matthaus:
I think with a club of Leeds stature it would be impossible to simply create a clean slate. The new owners have great respect for the history of this club but we are also focused on creating a positive future. By combining the Red Bull brand with the Leeds United history, we hope to push on and establish Leeds United as a powerful force within English football once again. The plan for the club is to achieve a Champions League position within the next 5 years, to achieve a position at the pinnacle of world football. There is no purpose in aiming for anywhere but the top.
Journalist:
Following on from your last answer, what are the owners plans in regards to financial backing, to achieve the goals you have just stated it will surely take some serious money?
Lothar Matthaus:
My personal opinion is that you play football with your feet and not with your wallet. When you get on the pitch it is 11 men versus 11 men, you know, we play with a ball not a chequebook. With that said, of course we must evaluate the team and amend where we feel is most essential if we are to achieve our targets. There are more than sufficient funds to do this, if I see a player I believe will improve the squad then we will look at how possible it is to bring that player to the club.
Journalist:
On a different note to the last question, how do you feel your experience as a player will influence the way your team plays?
Lothar Matthaus:
I want to win. That is my drive, I want to win every game that we play. If this means we go out and dominate possession then so be it, if it means we must hold back and play in a different style then we will do that. I love to watch the game as do we all but my main focus is to gain points. I am not afraid to defend nor am I afraid to attack.
Journalist:
Will we see any changes in the set-up behind the scenes, with scouts and coaching staff?
Lothar Matthaus:
Almost certainly. We are currently pressing on with the matter and hope to collate our team before the pre-season begins.
Journalist:
There are rumours circulating regarding David Gill, the ex-Manchester United chief executive, and him potentially gaining a place amongst the board at the club. Can you speak on this matter?
Lothar Matthaus:
Yes, David is here, he is here to help us achieve our goals. I cannot comment any further but yes he is now a member of the club.
Journalist:
Last question Lothar, are there any players on your radar already? We've heard murmurs that Red Bull are arranging for Thierry Henry to join the club?
Lothar Matthaus:
I will not talk about individuals as it is disrespectful to their rightful clubs. Henry yes, he is a fantastic player, I have always believed this but I can comment on him. There are a number of players on my mind, but until we have evaluated the team then we will not make any moves.
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Insiders at Leeds United have EXCLUSIVELY told The Mirror that new boss Lothar Matthaus will be allowed to spend anything up to 30 MILLION POUNDS in order to ensure the club gain promotion this season.
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It is thought that ex-Manchester United chief executive David Gill will be the main man pulling strings at Leeds United for Red Bull, with Garry Cook - previously of Manchester City - hired as Gill's right hand man. Red Bull are said to believe that the pair will be able to guide the club in the right direction, with a vast amount of experience at the top end of world football.
Rumours are also circulating that Eric Cantona, a former Leeds United player himself, will be joining the club in a directors position within the coming days.
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