Rio Ferdinand has moved to praise Lucas Radebe’s attitude to handing over the captaincy to the defender during the pair’s time together at Leeds United.
Leeds were a Premier League force when they parted with £18m to sign Ferdinand in 2000, chasing the title and also a Champions League.
The addition of the England international, who became the world’s most expensive defender was a statement, with David O’Leary quickly handing the centre-back the captain’s armband, which had been previously held by Radebe.
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Discussing that honour and Radebe’s reaction, Ferdinand told BBC Radio 5 Live: “The humbleness of someone like Lucas Radebe was really important.
“I came in and within three months I was given the armband he had held and done ever so well with before.
“The way it was handed over to me was a bit embarrassing for me and maybe a bit soon.
“The manager saw it was the right decision and the way he (Radebe) just took it. There was a calmness and respectfulness and the humble way this guy was.
“Always with a smile and something I did take away from him definitely, especially becoming a captain.”
Ferdinand went on to guide Leeds to fourth in the Premier League during the 2000/01 campaign, as well as the semi-finals of the Champions League.
The following season, Leeds finished fifth, with Ferdinand’s exit coming prior to the 2002/03 campaign.
The Verdict
Radebe is a huge favourite at Leeds United and the fact he remained loyal when others like Ferdinand did not sets him above the ex-England international.
He put things before himself throughout his life, with Leeds United no different in that respect, even if that was handing over the captaincy to someone new to the club.
Radebe really epitomises a Leeds United legend.
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