Whites legend Hunter says Wise has an opportunity to become 'a hero in the city' after being confirmed as the new manager at Elland Road.
"If he brings a bit of how he played into the team then that can only be good because whether you liked him or not as a player, you had to respect him," Hunter said.
"You slightly disliked him when he played for the opposition but that was because he was a good player.
"He didn't like the Leeds fans when he played but that's a totally different ball game.
"At this moment in time it's not an easy job for him, but if he can get a bit of stability and get us settled then he could be a hero in the city in no time whatsoever because the place is very, very low and it's waiting for somebody to come in and pick us up."
Meanwhile, Chelsea legend Harris says the respect commanded by Wise will help turn Leeds' fortunes around.
Harris said: "He may be a small man in terms of height but he commands respect. He has a presence about him when he walks through the door and that rubs off on players.
"You can be the best manager in the world but if you lose the respect of the players then you have not got a cat in hell's chance.
"He was a committed, wholehearted man as a player and he will be the same as a manager.
"You have to have good fortune as well and some luck, but he must have something about him because he took Millwall to the FA Cup final and has left Swindon high up in League Two.
"I think the time is right for him to go to Leeds. It is better taking over a club that is near the bottom because the only way is up."