McDermott expecting special Cup meeting for Leeds

The late former Wales midfielder is still revered by both Whites and Magpies supporters.

Leeds were handed a trip to Newcastle – and a ground they have not graced since January, 2004 – in Wednesday night’s third-round draw.

McDermott feels the occasion will turn out to be a special one.

Leeds’s manager said: “The first thing that struck me about it was Gary Speed.

“We’re playing Newcastle and it’s the first time we’ve played for a number of years.

“He (Speed) was a great man who played for both clubs and it will be a special occasion.”

On locking horns with a familiar face in Pardew – a former Reading manager, like himself – he added: “I texted him straight after and said, ‘I can’t believe we’ve got you lot’.

“I told him to make sure it’s a full house. We need the money.

“I’m looking forward to it. Alan’s a good friend of mine and he took me to Reading 14 years ago as chief scout and he’s a great manager, a good coach and I’ve spoken to him a lot over the past few weeks.

“It’s quite funny that we’re playing them.”

McDermott remains hopeful that the future of in-form forward Ross McCormack will be sorted shortly by virtue of him signing a new deal.

Middlesbrough – having had three bids for the forward turned down by Leeds – are still waiting in the wings and remain keen to sign the Scot.

On the incoming front, the Elland Road manager is hoping to make a signing, having spoken with club owners GFH Capital about an unnamed player, but he insists it is still ‘early days’ regarding his capture.