Leeds United goalkeeper Kiko Casilla now has until Wednesday 27th November to respond to the FA investigation, according to a report by BBC Sport.
The 33-year-old, who has played every game for Leeds in the Championship so far this season, ‘strenuously denies‘ the allegation made against him. In the original statement from the club, the Peacocks stated that ‘Kiko will remain available for selection‘ during the investigation.
Casilla on average only has to make 2.2 saves per match and has amazingly only made 35 all season.
The events have led to fans asking The Athletic’s Phil Hay a number of questions about the whole process, whilst some of the fans are more pointing the finger at the way the FA are handling it.
Leeds United goalkeeper Kiko Casilla granted additional time by the FA to respond to the racism charge against him. Was originally due to respond today – now has until November 27 to submit a plea. #lufc
— Phil Hay (@PhilHay_) November 12, 2019
no, the request for an extension was made from the Leeds end.
— Phil Hay (@PhilHay_) November 12, 2019
all the indications are that he’ll deny it.
— Phil Hay (@PhilHay_) November 12, 2019
None of us know what was said. There’s rumours on forums but it’s all rubbish. I’m interested to know why we’ve requested an extension. So we can make the most of him before potentially losing him or do we know that the evidence is compelling enough to warrant a lengthy ban?
— Ashley Oakes (@Oakes_89) November 12, 2019
delaying potential ban tactics? shameful from FA to muddy his name based on cenjecture
— Lewis Greenwood (@L_J_Gren) November 12, 2019
It’s a very difficult case as there’s a lot of confusion around what’s been said if anything, although one fan did appear to sarcastically hint at having the Spaniard banned so the club wouldn’t ‘bottle’ their upcoming fixtures in such a crucial part of the campaign.
It’s ridiculous. Not guilty from me. But then what do I know? #lufc
— Philippa Vereker (@PhilippaVereker) November 12, 2019
Very odd
— Corkball69 (@PhilipCawtheray) November 12, 2019
Now he can be banned just in time for bottling season
— Phil and Graham’s Lovechild (@LankyLeeds1) November 12, 2019
What Do We Think?
If Casilla is found guilty, Leeds may decide they find a replacement for him in January despite having the likes of Illan Meslier available, as the importance of having a solid goalkeeper that the defenders can rely on is immense.
Due to the lack of public information, a lot of the fans are left guessing what might or might not have been said. Of course, some still believe in the FA conspiracy theories, which shouldn’t be used as an excuse if found guilty.