Justin Thomas’ Leeds United play-off message as golf star ‘delighted’ to face Elland Road

Leeds United investor Justin Thomas may be 4,000 miles away and focused on his US PGA Championship, but the golf star will put his undivided attention on Thursday night’s play-off semi-finals.

Thomas is one of several US sports stars who have invested in the Elland Road club as part of 49ers Enterprises and admits he has learned a lot about the game in recent months. His early time in Thursday’s opening round at Valhalla means he will be able to accept Daniel Farke’s bid to reach Wembley when they face Norwich City.

There is nothing between the two sides after Sunday’s goalless stalemate at Carrow Road, with the second leg advantage potentially a key factor for Leeds this week. A meeting at Wembley awaits the winners, with Southampton and West Bromwich Albion both goalless ahead of the second leg at St Mary’s on Friday.

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READ MORE: Jonathan Rowe ‘delighted’ by atmosphere at Elland Road ahead of play-off second leg

Thomas may not be a soccer expert yet, but he says he’s a quick learner, along with fellow investor Jordan Speith.

“I’m really excited about my Thursday morning class,” Thomas said. “That worked out nicely for that game.

“My advice is very different from anything that would be useful or helpful to them, but I know I really enjoyed learning a lot more about the sport.

“Billy Foster (Matt Fitzpatrick’s caddy), I think between him, Jordan and myself, we’ve definitely become a lot closer over the last year and he’s given us a lot of information and knowledge as far as Leeds and us – sent videos from the games.

“At the moment I like the fact that he is playing at Elland Road. I know they’re a tough team to beat over there, so I’m excited to see.”

Leeds will be hoping their form at Elland Road, which has been so formidable for much of the season, returns after recent home defeats to Southampton and Blackburn, plus a goalless draw with Sunderland.