Crysencio Summerville sends emotional message to Leeds United fans after being booed on return to Elland Road
Crysencio Summerville’s return to Elland Road was always going to be emotional. Once the darling of the Leeds United faithful, the Dutch winger stepped back onto the pitch where he made his name — this time wearing West Ham colours. But what was meant to be a night of football quickly became something more personal.
Leeds United’s 2–1 win over West Ham was full of intensity, goals, and emotion. Yet, the loudest moments weren’t just the cheers for the home side — they were the boos echoing around the ground every time Summerville touched the ball.
A fast start from Leeds
Leeds came flying out of the blocks in front of their home crowd. Brenden Aaronson opened the scoring just three minutes in, taking advantage of a West Ham mistake, before Joe Rodon doubled the lead with a bullet header inside fifteen minutes.
The stadium erupted — Elland Road at its loudest, alive with pride and purpose. But amid the celebrations, every Summerville touch drew noise of a different kind.
As the game went on, fans in the South Stand could be heard chanting,
“You’re too **** to play for Leeds.”
It was a cruel reminder of how quickly football love can turn into heartbreak.
Despite the hostility, Summerville kept his composure, showing glimpses of the flair and confidence that once made him a hero in that very same stadium. Late in the game, Mateus Fernandes pulled one back for West Ham, but it was too little, too late. Leeds held on for a 2–1 victory.
A painful but heartfelt response
After the final whistle, Summerville didn’t hide. He walked over to the stands, clapped the Leeds supporters — even those who booed — and later spoke with raw honesty about what the night meant to him.
“Coming back to Elland Road tonight wasn’t easy,” he said. “I heard the boos, I heard the chants — and honestly, it hurt. Leeds means a lot to me. This club shaped who I am, not just as a footballer but as a person.
I understand that some people feel betrayed or disappointed. But I’ll never forget what I learned here, or the people who supported me when I was young and hungry to prove myself.
To the fans — even the ones who shouted things tonight — I still respect your passion. That’s what makes Leeds United so special. This club will always have a place in my heart.”
His message spread quickly online. Many Leeds fans admitted they were moved by his honesty, while others said emotions would take time to heal.
The bond that never really breaks
Summerville’s connection to Leeds runs deeper than one night of boos. It was at Elland Road that he became a star — scoring vital goals, including his unforgettable late winner at Anfield in 2022. He was fearless, electric, and full of belief.
When he left for West Ham in 2024, it hurt. Not just because of what he meant to the team, but because he represented a hope that Leeds fans clung to. His departure felt personal — and nights like this one prove that the feelings are still raw.
More than just football
As the crowd filed out and the floodlights dimmed, one thing was clear: football is about more than results. It’s about emotion — pride, anger, love, and regret — all colliding in one place.
Leeds took the three points, but the night belonged to emotion.
Crysencio Summerville’s return reminded everyone that in football, memories don’t fade easily. Sometimes, the same stadium that made you can also break your heart — but it’s the place you never truly forget.
