The 27-year-old endured a mixed spell with the Championship club before being loaned out this summer.
Giuseppe Bellusci
Giuseppe Bellusci’s time at Leeds United may not be remembered too fondly amongst the Elland Road faithful, but on this day two years ago, the Italian hinted that the Championship side had uncovered a gem with a moment of brilliance on the south coast.
Following Dave Hockaday’s dismissal, the Whites were enjoying something of a resurgence under caretaker manager Neil Redfearn.
A victory over Bolton and a draw with Birmingham meant that Leeds travelled to face Bournemouth with plenty of confidence.
However, it appeared that the Peacocks may be in for a long evening when Andrew Surman curled a shot past Marco Silvestri to give the Cherries the lead after just six minutes.
Bellusci’s free-kick against Bournemouth
But a second-half fightback began when Souleymane Doukara drilled the ball home with 23 minutes left. And while Mirco Antenucci would complete the comeback and hand Leeds a 3-1 win with an 89th minute counter attack, it was the goal that would prove to be the winner that, rightfully, grabbed the headlines.
Having endured a difficult start to life in England, it would have no doubt come as a big shock to Leeds supporters to see Bellusci – who had been sent off on his debut against Watford the previous month – standing over an 82nd minute free-kick 35 yards from Bournemouth’s goal.
Bellusci celebrating the goal against the Cherries
But he would prove that any sceptics were wrong to doubt him as he powerfully curled his attempt over the wall and into the top corner, kissing the crossbar shortly before it smashed into the net while Lee Camp desperately attempted to get something on it – obviously, to no avail.
While he would prove his doubters wrong on that occasion, it is fair to say that he has not been so successful over the course of his Leeds career.
The 27-year-old – now on loan with Empoli – was capable of match-winning displays and hinted that he could become a cult hero, but was also frequently guilty of committing glaring mistakes that cost the team several points during his two campaigns with the club.
And while many supporters may not be too disappointed if his loan spell means that he has already played his final game in a Leeds shirt, his goal at Dean Court should undoubtedly be remembered as one of the best the side have scored since they fell out of the top flight.
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