Leeds boss Simon Grayson talks up Jermaine Beckford

Grayson hails 'great day' for Leeds

Leeds United boss Simon Grayson talked up Jermaine Beckford's value after the striker guided the League One club to an FA Cup win over Manchester United.

"He showed what he is all about," said Grayson of the 26-year-old - who is out of contract in the summer - after he scored his fifth goal in three games.

"That's a big commodity. We're not looking to sell but money talks.

"He can sign a new deal or stay until the end of the season - worst-case scenario is an offer that's too good."

Beckford scored the winner at Old Trafford in the 19th minute and had a chance to double his tally in the second half, but shot wide after running through on goal.

But the striker has been strongly linked with a move away from Leeds, who are top of League One, with Championship leaders Newcastle United reportedly interested.

"We would have to have replacements lined up if that was to happen," added Grayson on the possibility of Beckford leaving, though the Leeds manager refused to discuss the Newcastle link.

We rode our luck in the penalty box at times, but not over the course of the game Leeds boss Simon Grayson

"We don't want him to leave unless it is the best thing for him and, long term, the football club. But, if we do let him go, we won't let him go on the cheap."

Beckford, who joined the Elland Road outfit from non-League Wealdstone in 2006, stormed off down the tunnel after being substituted at Southampton in December. He later apologised for his actions.

If Beckford's goal decided the tie, his Leeds team-mates proved plenty of evidence as to why they look well placed to win promotion to the Championship.

"You need a bit of luck at Old Trafford and we rode our luck in the penalty box at times, but not over the course of the game," Grayson told BBC Radio 5 live.

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"The players took to the task I asked them to do.

"We wanted to go out and try to win. No one expected us to win, and not many teams come to Old Trafford and win, but we achieved our target."

As many as 9,000 Leeds fans travelled to Old Trafford, helping to provide a great atmosphere for the game.

"Our supporters have had a lot of negativity over the last few years and we have given them a result to send them away delighted," said Grayson.

"Our fans were there for us. It is not just about taking 9,000 to Old Trafford. We have taken 3,000 to Bristol Rovers on a Tuesday night. Every away allocation, we sell. We regularly get 25,000 at home."