DAVID Healy was thrilled to be offered the Leeds United captaincy until the end of the season but that may be as far as his Elland Road career goes.

Relegation would almost certainly see the Northern Ireland international move on but even if Leeds survive, events may overtake Healy's future.

His international manager Lawrie Sanchez has taken charge of Fulham until the end of the season following the sacking of Chris Coleman. It is reported to be a short-term position but there are already hints that if he is successful, it might become more permanent.

In that case there is little doubt he would make a bid for Healy. Sanchez has said many times - to the annoyance of Leeds boss Dennis Wise - that Healy belongs in the Premiership.

Meanwhile the striker, who has scored three goals in the last four matches for Leeds, takes the armband from suspended Jonathan Douglas and a Leeds insider commented: "I've never known anyone be so genuinely thrilled to be made captain. He was absolutely made up."

He is the fourth player to be named skipper this season following Paul Butler (now at MK Dons), Kevin Nicholls, who was stripped of the captaincy following his request to re-join Luton, and Douglas.

Right-back Gary Kelly and defender Hayden Foxe both completed 90 minutes as the reserves drew 1-1 at Birmingham City this week, substitute Tomi Ameobi scoring a late equaliser for United.