The Leeds United Supporters' Trust has commissioned an incredible mural in honour of former club captain and Bafana Bafana legend Lucas Radebe.
Former South Africa and Leeds United captain Lucas Radebe has been honoured with a remarkable mural on the side of Sweeney Todd Barbers on Potternewton Lane in Chapel Allerton, Leeds, in recognition of his contribution to the club and towards "promoting inclusivity in football".
The 10 metre-tall mural was designed by Adam Duffield as part of a series of projects celebrating the history of Leeds and features a South African flag behind an iconic image of Radebe, with the straplines "The Chief" and "This is My Hero" included alongside.
"The mural, which has been fully funded by Fans for Diversity – a joint project by the Football Supporters' Association and Kick It Out – aims to celebrate diversity in football and ensure fans of all ages, disabilities, genders, races, faiths, sexual orientations feel safe and welcome in football environments," the Trust said in an official press release.
"The Supporters' Trust applied for funding from Fans for Diversity, highlighting Lucas Radebe's educational and anti-racism work while playing for Leeds United. The Trust felt that Lucas was the perfect symbol for inclusivity for the city and are delighted they deemed the project worthy of funding.
Prior to the mural's completion, and in testament to the impact left by Radebe during his time at the club, a number of young Leeds supporters who had been named after the legendary defender were invited to leave their handprints on the artwork.
"...Radebe left a long-lasting legacy as a hero across the city and especially amongst Leeds United fans, so much so - many fans named their son's after him," the statement continued. There are 100's of Lucas' around the city, so The Trust invited its junior members and fans called Lucas down to put their handprints around the mural and sign their name."
The 52-year-old was also in attendance for the early viewing of the mural via Facetime Messenger and could not hide his pride at being honoured with the massive mural by those he represented for more than a decade of his playing career.
"I am very proud and honoured to be chosen as the subject for the latest mural from the Leeds United Supporters' Trust," Radebe said.
"I have been a passionate anti-racism campaigner during my playing career at Leeds and since I have retired. I am delighted that this mural will stand as a symbol for the message of inclusivity and diversity in my second home of Leeds. I can't wait to come and see it in person. I really appreciate the support and love you guys show to me."