Leeds Today
CAPTAIN'S CALL TO ARMS

By PAUL DEWS In Sweden

Leeds United skipper Paul Butler today savoured the start of a new era for the Elland Road club and declared: "We can't wait to get started."

The 31-year-old will wear the captain's armband for the first time tonight when Kevin Blackwell's new-look United side kick-off their pre-season programme.
Leeds take on Swedish outfit Boden and Butler is relishing the prospect of leading his new team-mates into battle for the first time.
Said Butler: "I can't wait to get started playing games now.
"We've been doing more fitness work, but this is a great opportunity for the squad to get together and work on bonding. With all the new players we have here that is important.
"All the lads are looking forward to the games. When you start playing, the gaffer can start sorting the team out. You get an idea of how we're looking to play and can start working on things in a game situation.
"These games are a vital part of our preparation.
"We've done a lot of running and it has been hard at times, but it's to our benefit because we know what the first division is all about.
"It's all about being fit and being fitter than the others.
"We know what to expect and that's what we're working towards."
Butler has already made a big impression since his summer arrival from Molineux and Blackwell had no doubts about handing him the captaincy.
Butler said: "I've just been myself since I joined Leeds - I've not been trying to impress. I've just been me.
"Maybe I am a shouter, but that's just the way I am.
"The gaffer said he was looking for a leader and I'm happy to take responsibility."
Butler is also playing a key role as link between the players and the management.
Blackwell was keen for his captain to have a bigger say in events off the field and Butler, who says skippering Leeds is the biggest challenge of his career, is revelling in his role.
He explained: "The gaffer asked me if I wanted to be involved with the management side of things, more so as a middle man between the management and the players."
Blackwell has already signed eight players and Butler won't be the only one making his first start in a white shirt tonight.
But the captain will be taking on the added responsibility of helping the new faces to blend in during the short stay in Sweden.
"There's been a good atmosphere that started the first day we came back in," said Butler. "There's been a buzz around the club."

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