Leeds were hit with a massive fine after the EFL investigation into spygate on Monday.
Phil Hay, senior reporter from the Yorkshire Evening Post, suspects it was a “negotiated settlement”, where the £200,000 fine was agreed by Leeds in order to stop the proceedings going any further.
He said that it “prevents an independent panel getting involved”.
Hay made the claim on his personal Twitter account on Monday night.
I suspect it was what’s called a negotiated settlement – whereby Leeds agree to take a certain level of punishment in return for an end to proceedings. Prevents an independent panel getting involved.
— Phil Hay (@PhilHay_) February 18, 2019
OPINION
The fine seems excessive, especially when you consider that FIFA fined Russia £22,000 for racist chanting during a game with France. This is a fine that’s ten times as much for standing on a public road and not breaking an actual rule. The theory of a negotiated settlement makes sense though and it means that Leeds can get on with their season without worrying about more punitive punishment. The idea of it going to an independent panel is one that Leeds were obviously keen to avoid. And, while Leeds didn’t actually break a rule, it seems that transgressing the nebulous “good will” regulation is rather more open-ended than anyone thought. The fine might leave a sour taste in the mouth of Leeds fans but the good news is that it’s over and done with, and Leeds can focus on more important matters – getting back to the top of the Championship and securing promotion to the Premier League.