Leeds United fans stage protest in Preston

Hundreds of supporters joined in the demonstration against the league’s decision to disqualify United‘s Italian owner Massimo Cellino.

Mr Cellino is facing a ban after being convicted of tax evasion by a Sardinian court.

In a statement, the organisers of the protest said: “Whilst we respect that the Football League has a duty of care and responsibility towards its member clubs to look after their ‘best’ interests, we refuse to accept how recent decisions can be in the ‘best’ interests of Leeds United Football Club with regards the ownership of Leeds United Football Club.”

Leeds United have lodged an appeal against the Football league’s decision and it is expected to be heard on January 15.

Mr Cellino will remain as Leeds’ director while his appeal is being considered by the league’s Professional Conduct Committee, despite the governing body initially calling for his resignation before the end of December.

Leaflets publicising the protest were distributed outside Elland Road before Leeds’ Boxing Day fixture against Wigan Athletic.