Was the FA too easy on Leeds United?
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by Foolsgold
When Leeds United entered into administration last May, they received a ten-point deduction of their current standing in the Championship and assured themselves a place in League One this season. It was a highly questionable yet shrewd move by Ken Bates, the team's chairman, especially considering that in September 2006, the manager at that time, Kevin Blackwell, announced that within a year the club would be debt free. I can understand the circumstances of a poor season taking it's toll on a club's revenue, but that's a pretty drastic toll.
All suspicions aside, or maybe not, a group led by the aforementioned Bates purchased the club out of administration, despite claims that higher bids were made to KPMG who were the holding administrators. Eventually an agreement of reduced-debt payment was reached though the amount expected to be repaid is not known. It is assumed to be more than the 8% of the £35m, or £2.8m, originally agreed upon.
After the Football League approved the sale to Bates' new group, the relegated club were than further punished for abusing the option of entering administration and hit with a 15 point deduction. Upon receiving the disciplinary measures, Bates responded that his club would appeal the decision.
Fast forward to present day, a day in which Leeds could receive a response to their appeal at any moment, the club is undefeated through six matches and already sit two spots clear of relegation at 18th on the League One table. Not only that, but they lead the league in goals scored and goal difference.
How is this punishment? Every match is a Philistine party for Leeds fans as the Goliaths have made mince meat of the League One Davids. How is this fair to the other League One sides? Sure it may end up increasing the level of play of some players as they will get to compete against essentially footballers a level better, but for the most part, I may just be suffering the rare optimistic thought.
If the League had any cajones they would not only reject the appeal, they would double the point deduction to 30 and assure that Leeds not get promoted to the Championship as they appear to be on course to do. That would truly hurt Leeds where it matters most, in their wallets.
Originally posted here
