Leeds United's momentum under Marcelo Bielsa can carry the club back into Europe, believes former Whites skipper Dominic Matteo.
The former Leeds defender was a key part of the club's last European challenge, with his winning goal at the San Siro against AC Milan in the 2000-01 Champions League a part of the Leeds United folklore.
Leeds' subsequent demise has been well-documented, but Matteo has witnessed the club's renaissance under Bielsa and believes the upward trajectory which has seen them move from a mid-table Championship side to a mid-table Premier League team can continue next season with a push for the European places.
"We've got a brilliant manager in Bielsa so let's get him tied down for another season," Matteo told the Sunday Mirror.
"From the moment he walked into the club, everyone has got behind what he's trying to do.
"It can take years to generate that kind of momentum - but Bielsa managed it right away and Leeds have been on the up ever since.
"It feels like we've finally got our club back and everyone in football is talking about Leeds United again.
"There is a massive buzz about them and I get messages from Leeds fans all over the world, so the interest has skyrocketed now they are back in the big time. I think people are realising how big Leeds are again, because the potential of the club is frightening."
Leeds host Liverpool, Matteo's first club, on Monday night sitting just four places and seven points off Jurgen Klopp's defending Premier League champions.
"Like Liverpool, momentum is massive with Leeds and once they get going it's difficult to stop them - it's like a superpower," the former Scotland international added.
"With an outstanding owner in Andrea Radrizzani, and a top manager in Bielsa, Leeds are flying right now.
"I think next season they should be looking to get back into Europe. Bielsa is that type of manager - and nothing would surprise me because Leeds play with no fear.
"It's been brilliant to see the progress which has been made, and the next step now is to build on what has already been achieved. European qualification has to be the target for next season."
