By Rich B - 07:26 23rd August 2003
August 24 2003

International Right-back, Danny Mills seems set to leave Leeds United in the coming days for a year long loan move to Middlesbrough.

The left back, who was dropped for the first game of the season, has been subject to speculation for the past week after speaking out against Manager Peter Reid.  He claimed it was unfair for Peter Reid to question his attitude to Training  although admitted he had not performed well in pre-season games.  Reid spoke out about the matter on Thursday explaining he was happy with Mills' contribution to training but did not think he had played well in Pre-season and it was purely on this matter that he was not selected for the seasons opener.  The Gaffer also explained that he would continue to pick his squad based on performance and everyone could fight for a place.

Mills has been one of the few players to publicly support Leeds over the past year or so. At the end of last season he signed a new four year contract with the club and was quick to speak out over the summer when he was linked to a move away, pledging his future to the Whites.

It now seems that the tide is turning with the Manager giving Danny permission to speak to other clubs about a loan deal and Mills now quoting that he has to consider first team football for his International Career to continue.

Middlesbrough

Middlesbrough are reported to have agreed a deal to take Mills to the Riverside for the whole season with a £2 Million option to purchase.  The deal will also see Leeds continuing to contribute around £10,000 per week towards Mills' wages in a deal similar to that of Robbie Fowler when he moved to Manchester City last year.  The deal is not expected to be completed in time for 'Borough's match with Leicester next Tuesday meaning the first match Mills' could be eligible to play would be when Leeds travel north on 30th August.  It is unlikely though that Leeds would allow Mills to play considering they are paying part of his wages.

Birmingham City were also interested in a Mills loan deal but Middlesbrough seems to be the favoured choice of the Right-Back

Our Comment:
Danny Mills was an inspiration when he first moved to Leeds and quickly moved up the ranks to be a regular at International level.  He had a poor season last term, not helped by personal problems and he hasn't recovered his form yet.  The Leeds faithful seem prepared to stand by him for the commitment he has shown to Leeds and everyone has been hoping to get the Danny Mills of old back.  Now is the moment of truth though.  If Mills is as good as his word, he'll buckle down, prove the manager wrong and win his place back.  It seems more likely though that when push comes to shove, Mills is going to be off after being dropped for just one game!  If that's the case - the board will be doing us a favour getting rid.  What do you think - Let us know on the message boards

 

Post your comments on our message board - Click HERE now