Ex-Premier League referee hails Angus Kinnear for what he said to Leeds United fans
We’re delighted to welcome former Premier League referee Keith Hackett to the MOT Leeds News team. Each week, Hackett will discuss the big moments from the latest Leeds United games and deliver his verdict on whether his successors got their calls right or wrong…
Football needs to admit it has a problem with fan behaviour after Leeds United chief Angus Kinnear called for calm against Manchester United, according to Keith Hackett.
Writing in his pre-match programme notes ahead of the 4-2 defeat on Sunday, Kinnear was quoted by LeedsLive as saying he wants fans to avoid “unsavoury and illegal behaviour” at Elland Road.
Unfortunately, it didn’t work as Manchester United’s Anthony Elanga was struck by a coin thrown from the crowd while celebrating Fred’s goal [Mirror].
Former Premier League and FIFA official Hackett has called upon more training for stewards in light of the latest incident at Elland Road but is happy to see Kinnear accepting there’s an issue that needs addressing.
“I think the Premier League needs to talk to clubs’ CEOs and say there’s got to be further intensive training for stewards,” Hackett told MOT Leeds News.
“If he’s made that comment, the game’s got to recognise there’s a problem.
“There’s no question it’s a problem and it’s a growing trend that no one wants.”
It’s not the first time an incident similar to this has marred a Leeds United game with Brentford players being hit by bottles in December [Mirror].
Also in December, someone was arrested for allegedly shouting racist abuse at Arsenal’s substitutes [Guardian].
In other Leeds United news, Paul Robinson has reacted to a major controversy at Elland Road and suggested the “only way” to fix it.