The original secretary, a role that then also carried the modern responsibilities of manager and coach, was Gilbert Gillies (1904–1908) who was followed by Frank Scott-Walford.

In 1912, they appointed Herbert Chapman who guided the club to their highest position in the league (4th in the Second Division).

However, during the First World War the club won several wartime honours under the stewardship of Herbert Chapman.

Ironically, Leeds City's successors, Port Vale, nearly lost their League status for similar reasons in 1968, although they ultimately managed to retain it in an end-of-season vote among the other clubs.

The 16 members of the playing squad were bought by nine clubs for a total of £9,250:[5] In the wake of its demise, Leeds United was formed, and entered the Football League the following year.