Today marks the 55th birthday of former City striker Leo Fortune-West, who represented the Bluebirds between 2000 and 2003.
Earlier this season, we caught up with Leo in The Bluebird programme to look back on his time in the Welsh capital.
Leo, how do you reflect on your time as a Bluebird?
“As time goes on, you realise that it was such a privilege to play football as a job when you would pay to do it. It was remarkable. I’m even more grateful now that I spent so much time playing football.”
What was it like being a part of that squad with some fellow talented players?
“Cardiff City was a great experience. I joined at the very early part of a journey that led to two promotions to the Premier League. Success is interesting because when I was signed, I did so to get a promotion from what is now League Two to League One. When we did that, the Club had to build bigger and attract better players. The standard was high and I always looked to help the team where I could.”
What are your favourite memories from your time at City?
“The Leeds game in the FA Cup was very memorable, a really amazing day. It was a great occasion to beat a team that were top of the Premier League. Earning two promotions was fantastic. I had a good connection with Robert Earnshaw, who was the best finisher that I had ever seen. To have the composure he had when everything was going at a hundred miles an hour, it was a real skill. We had the likes of Danny Gabbidon and Graham Kavanagh, a really well-balanced team.”
You had a great connection with the fanbase, how much did you appreciate that support?
“Whenever you’re successful, you become a part of the Club’s history and I’m very honoured to be. The fans were great and still are to this day. It’s a fantastic city with a great stadium to match it.”
Do you still look out for City’s results?
“Absolutely! Cardiff City is a part of me and my history. I enjoyed a lot of success there and that will always stay with me. It is written into my heart as to how I feel about the Club.”