FANS JAV BEEN SO AMAZING

Gracia’s deal is still ‘flexible’... but heart’s melted!

JAVI GRACIA says Leeds United already has a place in his heart – but is refusing to discuss his long-term future until their safety is assured.

The softly spoken Spaniard arrived at Elland Road in February after Jesse Marsch was axed, and he has guided the Yorkshire giants to three wins in six League games.

Gracia signed up on a “flexible” contract, which is understood to run until the end of the current campaign, when his position will be reviewed.

The ex-watford manager, 52, is remaining coy about whether he would like to stay on, insisting his only focus right now is on survival.

But he admits he has been taken aback by the passion of Leeds’ fanbase – and is already feeling an emotional connection with the supporters.

Gracia attended Wednesday’s Elland Road memorial for Christopher Loftus and Kevin Speight, two Leeds fans killed in Istanbul 23 years ago. Asked about his Elland Road future, Gracia said: “It’s a good question, but speaking about my feelings and the ‘long term’ – the long term for me is the next game.

“I could feel the relationship between the supporters and the team from my first Leeds game.

“When I was at the memorial for Christopher and Kevin, I could see the relationship between the supporters and the club. It’s something really emotional, and it’s something that we have to keep for the coming years.

“Of course, I’m really happy to be in this club with these players.

“I’m enjoying being with them every single day here, but I think the best thing we can do at this moment is try to have the same, clear objective.

“And that is to win the next game so that we achieve our target at the end of the season. We will have time to speak then about whatever you want.” Leeds host Crystal Palace this afternoon after Luis Sinisterra (inset) got the winner in Tuesday’s 2-1 victory over Nottingham Forest at Elland Road. The Whites had not won in 10 Premier League games until Gracia arrived. But their current form has raised hopes that he can guide them to safety with games to spare – and avoid a nervejangling finale to the season. Gracia (below) added: “Every game is so difficult to win. When I arrived the team had gone 10 games without victory. “I try to put all our energy into the next game, and make the same effort coming off the back of a win or a loss. “So if we get safety before the end of the season we will be here and have a cup of wine! Until then, it’s only about the next game, please.”