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Leeds United fail in appeal to overturn 15 point deduction

02/05/2008

Leeds United have lost their appeal to be given back the 15 points they were deducted by the Football League at the start of the season.

An independent three-man arbitration panel appointed by the Chartered Institute of Arbitrators, took into account submissions made by both Leeds United and the Football League when making their final decision.

The ruling means that the club, who are sixth in League One, will not be able to automatically qualify for the Championship, but can still gain promotion via the playoffs.

Leeds chairman Ken Bates said he would accept the decision made, but was less than pleased with the panel criticising him for the delay in making the appeal.

"It is galling that we are criticised for the delay in bringing the appeal, when it was delays by the Football League that effectively backed us into this corner," said Bates.

But he added: "If what football achieves out of this is clarity for clubs in the future then that can mitigate some of our disappointment as we want all clubs to survive through what are very difficult times. The matter is now closed and the focus can return to the pitch.

"If the team are now able to progress through the play-offs to the Championship then it would be the appropriate reward for the efforts of the club's fans and players in overcoming the penalty imposed on the club."

Leeds were first deducted 10 points when they were in the Championship last season for allegedly breaking the rules when they went into administration. But the club's appeal was based on the further 15 points they were deducted once relegated to League One.