This was not always the case, for Leeds were once deeply and deservedly unloved. Their unpopularity sprang from their most successful era, when Don Revie fashioned a side whose blazing talent was tainted by a vicious cynicism. It was a team bristling with gifted intimidators who believed that the ends always justified the means. The rough edges were worn smooth with the years but Leeds then became cursed by a crowd who set vile standards for the most rabid racism. Such an evil takes years, rather than months, to eradicate but the task was bravely undertaken and the results are pleasingly evident.
Loyalty is still blind.
Instead, he received a standing ovation. Yet, even as we shook our heads, we recalled the time when a man of Dacourt's colour might have thought twice about pulling on a Leeds shirt. Even misplaced loyalty represents a kind of progress. And the players are responding to that support. I really ought to play for.