Robbie Fowler's brilliant 'pass the penny' Leeds United story Jonathan Woodgate almost ruined — Leeds Live 18/10/23

Former Leeds United striker Michael Bridge and head of physiotherapist Dave Hancock have recalled how Robbie Fowler introduced a 'pass the penny' game at Elland Road

By Chris Knight

Robbie Fowler introduced a 'pass the penny' game during Leeds United's Premier League matches which helped inspire David O'Leary's side to go on a winning streak. The former Liverpool forward spent less than two years at Elland Road, netting 14 times in 32 appearances after joining in 2001.

However, fellow striker Michael Bridges has recalled a period where during a bad run of form, Fowler introduced 'a game within the game' to help distract his team-mates from the pressure they were under. The game was called 'pass the penny', and there were fines and punishments for those who refused to participate or were left holding the coin at either half-time or full-time.

O'Leary himself and his coaching staff were unaware of the exercise though, and former head physiotherapist Dave Hancock has recalled how he stumbled upon the bizarre game himself. He told the Official Leeds United Podcast: "Listen, this is obviously a few years ago. They played a Premier League game for 90 minutes.

"I'm watching what's happening in the game, and all of a sudden they're touching hands while the game is going on right? I remember running on the pitch, and all of a sudden...I think it was McPhail...Gary Kelly has gone up to him and shook his hand.

"I'm looking at him and going what's going on here? They had a penny, and they're passing the penny throughout the whole game, and if they pass you the penny, you have to hold it while you're playing the game and pass it on."

Leeds actually went on to win the game, and Bridges believed it was the start of a five-match winning streak. The former Whites striker seemed to suggest it was all harmless fun until one instance where Jonathan Woodgate gave the penny to his goalkeeper while preparing to defend a set-piece.

Bridges explained: "The only time you don't give it... is to a goalkeeper when there's a corner. Nige [Martyn] has only got one hand then! You can imagine what's going to happen here?

"He's gone 'you've just given me the penny and the quote was you can't refuse it, can you, because there's a fine?' He's like it's a corner you dickhead!"