A Mural Artist Brings Leeds United‘s History to Life
He’s not Leonardo da Vinci, and he’s not even Tracey Emin. Robert Endeacott is just a passionate Leeds United fan with a paintbrush and a priceless opportunity to create some Elland Road history.
Endeacott’s canvas is a plot of land between The Old Peacock pub and Subway, directly behind the stadium’s Norman Hunter Stand. This once-forgettable wasteland is now the canvas for his artistic vision, as he brings to life the legends of Leeds United.
“I use the grid system because I’m not Leonardo da Vinci,” Endeacott explains. “I’m not even the ‘unmade-bed-lass’ (Emin, whose 1998 sculpture ‘My Bed’ was shortlisted for the Turner Prize). I use the grid system, and that’s very important because it makes it a lot easier to do, and I’d be lost without it.”
By February 2025, visitors will be able to admire 14-foot high murals dedicated to club icons like Eddie Gray, Billy Bremner, John Charles, Gary Speed, and Pablo Hernandez. The faint lines of the grid used to paint these larger-than-life figures are still visible, a testament to Endeacott’s meticulous approach.
Endeacott in front of his John Charles mural (Beren Cross/The Athletic)
“Why am I doing it? That’s a good question,” Endeacott ponders. “It’s because, like thousands of other Leeds fans, I’m just mad on the club, passionate and, thankfully, somehow got this experience and know-how to give something back.”
A Lifelong Dedication to Leeds United
Endeacott was born in 1965, grew up in Beeston, and still lives there. He went to his first game at four years old, and his dad, Barry, was on the Elland Road ground staff between 1970 and 1997, captivating his son with stories about Don Revie.
Endeacott may be better known to the Leeds fanbase as an author, with 12 different titles, the majority about the club, listed on his website. In 2020, chief executive Angus Kinnear also credited Endeacott with the idea to recreate Elland Road’s iconic diamond-shaped floodlights with the new structures.
The area near Elland Road where Endeacott is painting his latest mural (Beren Cross/The Athletic)
Endeacott’s perfectionism and attention to detail are evident in his work, both in his writing and his murals. He considers himself a perfectionist, driven by a “fear of criticism” and a desire to ensure his creations are flawless.
The East Stand at Elland Road has become Endeacott’s canvas, with numerous murals dedicated to Leeds legends adorning the walls and ceilings. From Peter Lorimer to Gordon Strachan, Endeacott’s artistic vision has brought the club’s history to life for all to see.
Endeacott’s original mural, since repainted (Beren Cross/The Athletic)
Endeacott’s dedication to Leeds United is unquestionable, and his artistic talents have transformed a forgotten plot of land into a celebration of the club’s rich history. As he continues to bring these legends to life, he hopes to inspire and delight fellow Leeds fans, leaving a lasting legacy in the shadow of Elland Road.
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(Top photos: Beren Cross/The Athletic)
Call to Action:
If you’re a Leeds United fan, be sure to visit the Elland Road area and admire the stunning murals created by Robert Endeacott. These works of art are a testament to the club’s history and the passion of its supporters. Don’t miss this chance to immerse yourself in the rich tapestry of Leeds United‘s legacy.
