Gary McAllister, Leeds United's new manager, can expect a tumultuous Elland Road welcome for his first game in charge, against Tranmere Rovers on Saturday.

The fans' reaction to the appointment of former midfield hero McAllister this week has been overwhelmingly favourable, but Macca is well aware that his continued popularity will stand or fall on results.

Leeds have gone three games without a win, taking just one point in the process, and it is hoped McAllister's influence will have the desired effect.

Charged with the task of landing promotion to the Championship, the Scot will mirror the importance placed on fitness by his predecessor Dennis Wise.

McAllister admits in his book Captain's Log that Howard Wilkinson's strict fitness regime at Leeds helped to make him into a better player and was a factor in the club's 1992 League Championship success.

So the squad Wise left behind cannot expect an easier ride on the training pitch, despite McAllister's strong belief in attractive football.

Visitors Tranmere were beaten 2-1 by Leeds on the season's opening day when United's current captain Andy Hughes made his debut after his transfer from Norwich.

McAllister was intensely proud of being United's skipper and there hasn't been a better creative central midfielder at Elland Road since he left for Coventry in the summer of 1996.

Midfielder Hughes, who is just as proud to wear the captain's armband, is eager to learn from his new boss.

Hughes, who is doing a part-time degree in sports science, said: "It is a great responsibility to be given the captaincy while Alan Thompson is out on loan and Jonathan Douglas is injured.

"If I can set an example by making a good pass, being vocal or making a good tackle, that's fine. The midfield area has seen the most changes this season and we will have to see what happens now Gary McAllister is here.

"Certainly those of us now in the team can take nothing for granted. We are looking over our shoulders."

Keeper Casper Ankergren, who missed the midweek defeat at Southend, faces a fitness check. Ankergren's deputy David Lucas was blamed for the goal that left United empty-handed at Roots Hall.

Defender Darren Kenton, who has been on loan from Leicester, has agreed a contract until the end of the season.

Meanwhile, United have been given permission to discuss personal terms with Stockport County striker Anthony Elding, 25.

The clubs have agreed a fee for Elding who has scored 24 league goals in 45 appearances for Stockport. He was also a prolific scorer with Boston United and Stevenage.

McAllister hopes to complete the signing before tonight's midnight deadline when the transfer window closes.