Leeds United fans were blown away by the passion and eloquence of Pontus Jansson during his media briefing at Friday lunchtime.
The Leeds talisman spoke at length about his desire for the club to return to the Premier League and his strong belief they can win promotion this season.
Jansson, 26, was dismissive of United’s critics, as quoted by Yorkshire Evening Post correspondent Phil Hay, as he insisted “we’re on the way back” and that he could not care less if it led to hatred and jealousy from rival sets of fans.
Jansson: “Leeds have had 15 tough years. Now we’re on the way back. People can hate us, I don’t care.” #lufc
— Phil Hay (@PhilHayYEP) September 29, 2017
Jansson’s comments struck an instant chord with Leeds fans, many of whom watched the media conference live or read the comments on news feeds.
This Is Futbol has rounded up some of the best tweets:
An absolutely top drawer presser from Pontus Jansson. Rarely seen better. Wears his heart on his sleeve and absolutely gets this club. ????
— Chris Taylor (@LUFCDATA) September 29, 2017
Wow thought I loved Pontus before today’s interview, off the scale now! If ever a footballer was meant for a specific club, he is us. #lufc
— FionaCK (@FionaCK) September 29, 2017
@PJansson5 for Prime Minister ???? #MOT #LUFC #ALAW https://t.co/AlIbIDAPrS
— Jamie Merry (@jaymerry91) September 29, 2017
Sounds like a new chant in the making. If only there was an existing song we could adapt. It would have to include the number 15 though. ???? #lufc https://t.co/sHCCs2uJQq
— Tommy (@tommy_lufc) September 29, 2017
Bleeds Leeds this man @PJansson5 #lufc https://t.co/8ezqG7HzPl
— Clair ???????? (@rugbyleaguelady) September 29, 2017
Loyalty is a very rare thing in football. Pontus a shining light and great example to any young footballers wanting to be remembered. https://t.co/PVToomYbKh
— Paul Scaife (@pss53) September 29, 2017
Pontus Jansson is the king.
— BC (@BC_LUFC) September 29, 2017
The Swedish defender has been a hugely popular figure at Elland Road since joining on an initial loan from Torino in the summer of 2016.
Jansson was a key figure as Leeds finished seventh in the Championship last season and has been equally effective in the new campaign after signing a three-year contract during the off-season and joining on a permanent deal.
Leeds are next in action on Sunday when they travel to Hillsborough for the Yorkshire derby against Sheffield Wednesday.