Jermaine Beckford excited by latest Leeds United announcement as The 49ers make new decision

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Leeds United have finally announced plans to expand Elland Road to north of a 50,000 capacity which would make the iconic stadium the seventh-largest venue in the country.

There has been talk for some time that Elland Road required not only improvement but an increase in the amount of seats. Despite relegation and years in the second tier, demand to see Leeds continues to grow.

Leeds confirmed in a statement published on their official website that The 49ers are looking to take the ground from a capacity slightly below 38,000 to around 53,000, north of Newcastle’s St. James’ Park.

Already, Leeds fans are renowned for the atmosphere created at Elland Road and the noise generated even away from home. A one-club city, the support for Daniel Farke’s side is immense and getting bigger.

Other elements included in the Leeds statement say that there will be a “phased” process in order to avoid losing seating during redevelopment. Such news has prompted a response from Jermaine Beckford.

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Jermaine Beckford ‘can’t wait’ to hear 53,000 Leeds fans singing

There will certainly be some noise. Leeds fans produced incredible levels of volume last season whether it be Ilia Gruev’s opener against Norwich in the play-off semi-final or the 3-1 win over Leicester City at home.

For a stadium holding less than 40,000, Leeds fans are often credited as the best by other fans and even players. Linked with Leeds, Jonathan Rowe described Elland Road as the best atmosphere he had heard.

Reacting to Leeds’ new announcement, Elland Road icon Beckford “can’t wait” to hear 50,000 Leeds fans: “This will be exciting! Imagine the atmosphere when 50k+ are singing at full pelt! I can’t wait!! MOT.”

What Paraag Marathe has said about new Leeds stadium plans

What is refreshing is that a Leeds chief executive is talking about the club in the long run. The 49ers may have been the subject of criticism in the summer, but there is no doubt they are putting the club first.

Even Marathe has come in for criticism for some of the things he said at the start of the summer before selling Archie Gray, Crysencio Summerville and Georginio Rutter, but the old regime is affecting Leeds.

The move from Marathe and The 49ers is a sign they are planning long-term at Leeds, not just making a quick profit.

Marathe said: “Our plans reinforce our commitment to the long-term success of the club.

“I am excited that we are going to be able to welcome thousands more supporters to every game, in a stadium that retains the unique atmosphere of Elland Road. We look forward to sharing our plans.”