A group of Leeds United supporters have been discussing an update on their upcoming fixture with Derby County, which has been provided by The Telegraph’s Sam Dean and John Percy. The article claims that the head of the UK’s football police has allegedly proposed the match between the two clubs should be relocated to Southampton’s St. Mary’s Stadium.
It’s understood that Mark Roberts has identified this fixture as “high-risk”, but the proposed venue is more than 160 miles away from Pride Park, leaving both clubs furious.
According to the report, Roberts has ‘strongly denied the allegation’ and described it as “categorically untrue”, but it is said that multiple sources confirmed the plan was indeed put forward.
Here is how Leeds fans reacted to the story:
Typical EFL nonsense
— Mike Parker (@rekrap1963) June 4, 2020
I’m a leeds fan who now lives in Southampton, if it’s at St Mary’s I’ll go stand outside! What a joke!
— Graham Hesp (@GrahamHesp) June 4, 2020
Do you realise how many fans went to Australia as part of pre-season friendlies??Hope common sense prevails and #lufc supporters don’t gather at away grounds or Elland Rd but this shows no understanding fans who could make even longer journeys
— Mark B (@MBee63) June 4, 2020
Are you opposed to fixtures being played at neutral venues?
Yes
No
Both clubs declined to comment on the report, but based on the above responses, the fans haven’t been afraid to voice their opinions. However, there is still work to be done by Marcelo Bielsa’s side before there will be any celebrations. As well as securing promotion, they will be hoping to hold off West Bromwich Albion’s challenge for the league title itself.
Leeds fans continued to express their thoughts regarding the reported proposal.
I’m surprised they haven’t tried to move our home match with fulham to craven cottage
— Adam Barlow (@AdamPaulBarlow) June 4, 2020
Absolutely ridiculous
— Richard Hammond ??????? (@Richard_hammond) June 4, 2020
Laughable. I sometimes wonder of those involved in decision making actually have a grasp of reality.
— DavinBali (@DavinBali) June 4, 2020
According to John Percy, the EFL was ‘totally against it’ and it therefore seems that the anger towards the footballing authorities is misplaced.