Lucic relishes Leeds challenge

New Leeds defender Teddy Lucic is confident he can make his mark on the Premiership following his surprise last minute move to Elland Road.

Lucic was a transfer deadline day capture from AIK Solna, signing on loan until the end of the season pending the prospect of permanent move in the summer.

Lucic is an experienced campaigner, playing in all four of Sweden’s World Cup games this summer and is capable of operating anywhere across the back four.

Boss Terry Venables has made Lucic aware he will have to fight for his place as his preferred position at the heart of the defence sees him up against Jonathan Woodgate, skipper Dominic Matteo, Lucas Radebe and Michael Duberry.

Lucic, though, is relishing the challenge as he said: "I was a little surprised when I heard Leeds wanted to sign me, particularly as the move came on the last day of the transfer deadline.

"But I felt very happy when I heard I had clinched a move because Leeds have been one of the top teams in England for several years, and they still have a lot of potential.

"Hopefully, I can now make my mark in the Premiership. I’d like to think this is a league that can suit my game. As to whether I go straight into the first team, that’s down to the manager.

"But I didn’t come here just to be a first-team squad player. My goal is to start.

"There’s competition for places, but that’s fun because everyone improves as a player if there’s competition."

Lucic concedes Venables has so far made a good impression on him, and the United manager is convinced the 29-year-old can in turn do so on the team.

"Teddy’s a very good player. People will remember seeing him play for Sweden against England in the World Cup playing at left back," said Venables.

"He is strong defensively and I think he will do well here. Although he is the sort of player that can go straight into the first team, he’ll have to fight for his position.

"But I know he will want to challenge to get a place in the team."