Leeds were the last winners before the new Premiership era got under way. Howard Wilkinson s side had won promotion in 1990 and finished 4th in their first season back in the top flight. In 1991-92 Leeds held off the challenge of Manchester United to bring the club their first championship since 1974. Gordon Strachan, who had joined the club from Manchester United in 1989 for just ?300,000, had been m sparkhng form, despite turning 35 during the season. Alongside him in midfield were Batty, McAllister and Speed, giving a blend of youth and experience, fmesse and steel. Midway through the season Wilkinson added more flair by bringing in the controversial French star Eric Cantona. 25-year-old Cantona had had a string of clubs and several run-ins with the authorities in France. He briefly turned his back on the game but decided to start afresh on the other side of the Channel. Sheffield Wednesday boss Trevor Francis had a look at him, but as he vacillated, Howard Wilkinson stepped in to offer terms.
Cantona’s Gallic flair
The honeymoon would not last much beyond securing the championship as far as the club was concerned. For the fans it was a different matter. They warmed to the GaUic flair and air of arrogance Cantona showed on the field. The chant “Oo-ah-Cantona” rang round the Elland Road terraces, but not for long. By tlie end of the year Cantona had moved to Old Trafford for just ?1 million. Over the next five years the Frenchman would become the pivotal player in Ferguson’s dream team.
World History
