EIRIK BAKKE

Personal Stats
DOB: 13th September 1977
Birthplace: Norway
Height: 6'1"


Profile

Despite being earmarked as a player for the future, Eirik announced his arrival in the Premiership with an impressive home debut against Newcastle in September 1999 and went on to play a key role in United's season both at home and in Europe.
An elegant midfielder with an eye for goal, especially in the air as his double against Galatasaray in the UEFA Cup semi-final proved, he deservedly picked up the LUFC Young Player of the Year award for the season.
Eirik became David O'Leary's second signing when he joined Leeds on a five year contract from Norwegian second division side Sogndal for £1.75M in May 1999.
Bakke impressed the United manager in a short trial at the end of the 1998/99 season and in his second appearance for Norway in their 6-0 romp over Jamaica two weeks later and was quickly snapped up to become the first close season arrival.
Injuries in the Leeds camp and Eirik's form in training forced DO to pick him and people really sat up and noticed as he made startling progress, proving that Leeds had just made one of their shrewdest signings in their history.
Eirik showed how keen he was to come to Elland Road, when he turned down reported offers from Chelsea and Rosenborg and is excited by the prospect of joining the O'Leary era, which has already seen a host of young talent emerge through the United ranks.
Tipped to become one of Norway's top stars of the future, the 22 year old midfielder, captained the Norway U-21 side, before forcing his way into the full squad ahead of Norway's Euro 2000 campaign.

Career Stats:

Squad No. 19

Position: Midfield

Date Signed: 25th May 1999

Signed from: Sogndal

Transfer fee: £1.75M

International Honours: Norway Full, U-21

Previous Clubs: Sogndal - 119 /25 goals