FA launch Leeds United investigation after Elland Road incidents v Brentford
The FA have launched an investigation into Leeds United after ugly incidents involving Brentford stars Sergi Canos and Bryan Mbuemo, according to the Mirror.
Canos struck Brentford’s second goal of their 2-2 draw at Elland Road on Sunday afternoon (6 December) and he led the away side’s celebrations in front of Leeds supporters.
He and Mbuemo appeared to be struck by objects thrown from the home fans and referee David Coote has included the incidents in his match report.
Coote’s report has already been studied by the FA, who have launched a probe into the behaviour of the Leeds fans.
Leeds could be hit with an FA punishment if the investigation concludes that they did not do enough to prevent their fans’ misbehaviour.
Dangerous
There’s a lot to be said about the conduct of the Brentford players, particularly Canos, who appeared to goad the Leeds supporters.
But there is never any defence for throwing objects at players on the pitch. It’s dangerous and could cause serious injury, with Canos and Mbuemo both struck on the head at Elland Road.
Most fans gave as good as they got in terms of directing unpleasantries towards the Bees stars, and as long as it doesn’t cross the line into abuse, there are no big issues over that.
But launching missiles onto the pitch, regardless of their severity, is unacceptable.
The onus is now on Leeds to prove that they did all they could to prevent such incidents from taking place.
History shows that clubs can face big fines for failing to ensure the protection of players on the pitch, so the Whites will be scrambling to get their house in order and prove themselves to the FA.
In other Leeds United news, a Sky Sports pundit has mooted a major Whites man exit amid reported behind-the-scenes talks.