With his unwavering will and desire, David Prutton frequently influences League One games, making him one of Leeds United’s favorite cult heroes in recent memory.

Prutton started his playing career at Nottingham Forest, although being born and bred in Hull. In 1998, after completing their youth system, he made his senior debut. He made a name for himself at Forest during five seasons as a feisty midfielder.

Southampton and other Premier League clubs ultimately took notice of that. Ultimately, Prutton paid £2.5 million to join the Saints in 2003. During his three seasons with the Saints, he made 94 appearances across all competitions.

Despite a lengthy suspension after a dispute with a referee, his combative style and hard-working character won him over the supporters throughout his time at the club. That was all before he joined Leeds, when he was referred to as “Jesus” in West Yorkshire.

David Prutton joins Leeds United from Southampton

In the summer of 2007, Prutton went on trial with Leeds following a brief return to Forest on loan at the conclusion of his Southampton stay. After he played for the team for 95 games, Southampton let him go, which was Leeds’ advantage. The rest is history, as they say.

He immediately won over the Elland Road supporters with his toughness, tenacity, and no-nonsense approach during a difficult time for the community. Prutton joined Leeds when they were struggling financially and languishing in the third division after being relegated to League One, arriving for free that summer. all the while struggling to get back who they are.

Despite the mayhem off the field, Prutton was a fan favorite because of his dedication and diligence. He accepted the challenge, bringing vigor and combat to the midfield in each match and frequently setting an example when the team needed stability.

Prutton’s cult hero status was solidified when he relocated to Leeds. Even though Leeds struggled to get promoted out of the division in the first few seasons, he became a vital member of the midfield during their stay there thanks to his aggressive, hard-tackling style of play.

Fans loved his dedication on the field, but what truly captured their attention and cemented their love was his unique “Jesus” appearance with long, flowing hair. A pivotal figure in the dressing room during a tumultuous period under Ken Bates, Prutton’s temperament and work ethic struck a deep chord with the Leeds supporters.

In 2025, Prutton will be the lead presenter for Sky Sports’ EFL coverage. His driven and humorous demeanor helped keep the team’s spirits high throughout hard times. However,

Compared to the rough-and-tumble midfielder at Elland Road, he now has a sleek and fashionable clothing, coiffed hair, and a well-groomed beard.

However, it should come as no surprise that his personality comes through because of his ability to unite the team, which not only allowed Prutton build a close bond with his colleagues but also with the Leeds supporters, who valued his dedication and passion.

He embodied the qualities Leeds supporters valued most: perseverance, hard work, and a never-say-die mentality. Even though, except from his debut season, he was never a consistent starter, it was clear every time he took the field in West Yorkshire.

One particularly memorable event that solidified his cult status was when he scored an incredible long-range goal against Millwall in the 2008 play-off semi-final. It embodied his never-say-die mentality, and Prutton is still cherished even if Leeds didn’t get promoted that year.