Lucas Valeriu Radebe born in the Diepkloof section near Johannesburg on the 12th April, 1969. When he was 15 years of age he was sent to "bantustan" of Bophuthatswana by his parents in order to keep him away from crime. During his stay in Bophuthatswana, Radebe played football (as a goalkeeper).
Lucas Radebe was snapped up by the Kaizer Cheifs as a midfielder. Radebe's talents excited many teams and alot were interested in signing him. This lead to him being shot in 1991 while walking down a street. Radebe reckoned someone had being hired to shoot him to stop him moving clubs. Following the shooting Radebe and a team mate both moved to Leeds United in 1994. Leeds payed £250,000 for Radebe. Radabe quickly established himself at Leeds and became a top player. The 1998/99 season led to the appointment of Radebe as captain. Leeds then nicknamed him "The Chief" because of his performances.
As captain of Leeds, Radebe was very successful in the in the 1998/1999 season, Leeds finished fourth in the FA Premier League qualifying for the UEFA Cup. The following year Leeds finished third in the Premier league and qualified for the Champions League were Radebe led them to the semi finals. Radebe then sustained knee and ankle injuries. These injuries kept him out of the game for nearly two years.
The 2005 season signalled the end for Lucas Radebe as he announced his retirement from football. He played in a testimonial match at Elland Road. This match had players from all around the world playing including Leeds United players of the past and present. He was then offered a role on the Leeds United coaching Staff.
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