Thirteen years ago, Leeds United were in the midst of a turbulent summer that would set the tone for a rollercoaster season.
With the influential captain Robert Snodgrass having departed, manager Brian McDermott had to appoint a new leader.
He surprised many by handing the armband to a new signing who had just arrived from SK Brann.
The decision was a significant show of faith in a player who had yet to make his competitive debut for the club.
His appointment marked the beginning of a campaign defined by a change in ownership, managerial upheaval, and a struggling squad.
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Rodolph Austin was ‘shocked’ at being made Leeds United captain
“I was shocked to be honest because I didn’t know the gaffer had so much respect for me and saw me as a leader,” he told BBC Radio Leeds at the time.
“He called me to his office on Friday and I was blown away.”
Austin added: “I said I wanted some time to think about it but he insisted I take it because he thought I would do a good job.
“It’s very pleasing to have been asked to do the job and an honour to be the captain of such a big club.”
Austin’s first game as Leeds United captain was a significant one, marking his return to the side after a suspension at the start of the 2013-14 season.
On August 11, 2013, he led the team out for a Championship match against Leicester City at the King Power Stadium. It was a goalless draw, a point that helped Leeds continue their unbeaten start to the season.
Austin’s performance in this game was highly praised, and he was even awarded the Man of the Match. It was a display that justified manager Brian McDermott’s faith in him to take over the armband from previous captain Lee Peltier.
Rodolph Austin’s time at Leeds United & goal of the season
During his time at Leeds United, Rodolph Austin became a fan favourite due to his committed and tenacious performances.
One of his most memorable moments was a stunning free-kick against Cardiff City in September 2012, which was his first league goal for the club.
Another standout performance was in a League Cup victory over Premier League side Everton that same month, where he scored a crucial goal in a 2-1 win.
He also gained attention for his powerful long-range shots. A particularly notable goal was a spectacular volley against Watford in a 3-2 defeat during the 2014/15 season, a strike that earned him the Goal of the Season award at the club’s end-of-season ceremony.
While his career was punctuated by red cards due to his fiery style, these memorable goals and his tireless work rate cemented his place as a cult hero among the Elland Road faithful.
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