Before the FA Cup match, and after a brief two-day break, Manchester City resumed training in preparation for yet another tough fixture—this time at home against Leeds United.
George Graham had returned to football management with Leeds in September 1996, following the end of his ban. He took over after the fifth game of the season, replacing the long-serving Howard Wilkinson.
O'Neill made no effort to greet Graham. In their earlier encounter at Elland Road, City players had been subjected to racist abuse from the Leeds supporters. When the backlash came, instead of condemning the behavior, Graham tried to excuse it—creating an irreparable rift between the two managers.
Now, on the touchline, O'Neill stood with his hands in his coat pockets, visibly anxious. His thoughts raced: the risk of injuries, the psychological strain on his players, and yet—how could he not yearn for that elusive league title? The dream was within reach, almost tangible.
