Leo given incentive to shine

Last updated : 13 August 2002 By Michael Morris
Lennie Lawrence has told Leo FW he can earn himself a new contract for next season.

"Leo has said he might not be a part of things here if we get into the First Division. I pulled him aside and told him not to write himself off so easily." Lawrence told the Western Mail.

"The trouble with Leo is that he writes himself off too easily. If he keeps playing like he did at Oldham there will be a new contract for him, most definitely.

"He's 31 but he's in very good shape. Leo does look after himself very well. I'm not writing him off at all.

"He might not have a silky touch but goodness me he doesn't half work for the team."

Lennie decided to use Leo instaed of Rob Earnshaw to start against Oldham on Saturday. A move that paid off with City coming away with all three points.

"I'm not saying Andy Campbell, Peter Thorne and Robert Earnshaw can't play together in attack. It's just that I didn't fancy it on Saturday and I was right."

"Leo thought he wasn't going to be in the team. When I told him he was in it, it lifted him big-time and that's why we got that performance from him."

Leo it would appear had started to write himself off, his comments suggest he did not think he would be welcome at the end of the season.

"On paper this is my last season, but as far as a new contract is concerned I'm not looking that far ahead, to be honest.

"This is my last year at Cardiff and if I get picked to play I'll just go out and do my best. I didn't feel I had anything to prove at Oldham."

"I expected I wouldn't be involved too much in the pre-season games.

"The gaffer has got three big names here and he's got to try and keep them all happy,"

"But I got a feeling after the Bolton match that things might change for me. It went well at Oldham but it's only one game.

"I think Earnie and Andy are very similar players. They're both light and nippy. Maybe only one of can play in a 4-3-3.

"I think when I'm playing in a three-man attack I even things out a bit more. I bring something a bit different. don't find being a substitute too frustrating. Luckily, I'm the type of player who will play a part even though I'm starting on the bench.

"There are a lot of very good players at Cardiff and that includes the players who aren't involved in the match.

"The gaffer got us all together and said we can't all play but that everyone will play a part this season."

Leo will start tonight against Port Vale and he he come some way near his Oldham performace it will be difficult for Lennie to leave him out of the side.