Ross McCormack insists he didn’t ask to leave Leeds United in the New Year, and has also spoken of his pride at being appointed captain.
The Scotland international inevitably attracted much interest from the Premier League during the winter window, due to the prolific season he is having in front of goal. As they looked to bolster their attacking options in their fight against relegation, both Cardiff City and West Ham United are thought to have tabled bids for his signature.
And when it broke on 31 January, which was deadline day, that Brian McDermott had been sacked as manager of the Elland Road club, McCormack told Sky Sports he would have a decision to make should a late bid arrive. The 27-year-old eventually pledged his future to the Yorkshire giants, who reinstated their manager shortly afterwards.
The Leeds captain, who was given the armband when Rodolph Austin gave up the role in January, insists he never once asked to leave the Elland Road club. And he has also revealed the pride he feels in the responsibility he has of leading the Whites, who in 12th position in the Championship and eight points adrift of the playoff spots.
“Despite what some people think, I never asked to leave,” he told the Daily Record. “I’d just been made captain of Leeds which in my eyes is a big, big deal. It’s a big job for me, one I’ve been working towards for the last few years. I’m ready for it. I’ve matured a lot as a person and I’m really enjoying it. As captain I enjoy the responsibility. Even when I didn’t have the armband I was doing a lot out with the club so it has been an easy transition.”
Although he still has three years left on his contract at Leeds, it would be a surprise if he didn’t receive more top-flight interest when the window reopens at the end of this season. McCormack has scored 24 goals this term, and is quickly establishing himself as one of the best talents in the country outside of the Premier League.
