Green snubs Huddersfield to link up with Leeds as Warnock gets busy

The Elland Road club yesterday agreed a two-year deal with Derby County midfielder Green, just 24 hours after sealing an identical agreement with Norwich City left-back Drury.

The two signings brought to an end a frustrating few weeks for United’s manager after his initial plan to bring in “three or four” new faces before the end of May faltered following the early arrival of Portsmouth defender Jason Pearce.

On-going talks designed to secure investment in Leeds were the cause as any transfer dealings – including the planned capture of No 1 target, QPR goalkeeper Paddy Kenny – had to be put on hold, something that allowed Crystal Palace to nip in and snatch Pompey full-back Joel Ward for £400,000 from under Warnock’s nose.

The Leeds chief said: “Getting two more on board to add to Jason Pearce has been a big lift but now, over the next three weeks, we have to push on. We have to get some more of our targets over the line.”

Green’s decision came as a blow to Huddersfield Town, who the Yorkshire Post understands made a concerted effort – including a higher wage offer – to sign the former Doncaster Rovers man only for the 29-year-old to opt for Leeds.

Warnock said: “Both Paul and Adam had offers from elsewhere but chose us. In Paul’s case, I feel he has been the victim in the past of his own versatility and ability to play anywhere.

“The temptation seems to have been to play him all over the shop but I see him firmly in a role where he can sneak into the box and get on the end of things.”

With United unlikely to pay out any transfer fees until a cash injection is secured, supporters may have to be patient.

Warnock said: “One or two fans may moan about the two signings being free transfers. But my first two signings at QPR were Clint Hill and Shaun Derry on frees and they didn’t do bad, did they?”

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