Midfielder Eirik Bakke is synonymous with an era of success and excess in LS11. He enjoyed seven successful seasons helping Leeds United reach the semi-finals of both the UEFA Cup and Champions League. Bakke came to Leeds in 1999 as a Norwegian Under-21 international and the plan was to blend him slowly into an already strong midfield. “He was a player who I didn’t want to expose too quickly,” manager David O’Leary said. “But he emerged with great credit.” Bakke continued to make his presence felt in the post-O’Leary years but spent increasing amounts of time with Leeds’ medical staff as injuries consumed him. Enjoy these rarely-seen photos showcasing some of his stand out moments playing for Leeds United. READ MORE: 18 memories from Leeds United's Champions League adventure during the 2000s
![Everton's Li Tie shields the ball from Eirik Bakke during the FA Barclaycard Premiership clash at Elland Road in November 2002. The Toffees won 1-0.](https://www.thestar.co.uk/webimg/QVNIMTE4Mjg1MDcz.jpg?crop=3:2&trim=&width=640)
19. Eirik Bakke in focus
Everton's Li Tie shields the ball from Eirik Bakke during the FA Barclaycard Premiership clash at Elland Road in November 2002. The Toffees won 1-0.Photo: Getty
![Share your memories of Eirik Bakke in action for Leeds United with Andrew Hutchinson vai email at: andrew.hutchinson@jpress.co.uk or tweet him - @AndyHutchYPN](https://www.thestar.co.uk/webimg/QVNIMTE4Mjg1MDc0.jpg?crop=3:2&trim=&width=640)
20. Eirik Bakke in focus
Share your memories of Eirik Bakke in action for Leeds United with Andrew Hutchinson vai email at: [email protected] or tweet him - @AndyHutchYPNPhoto: Varley Picture Agency