Thousands of Leeds United fans sign petition backing Cellino
MORE than 8,000 Leeds United fans have signed an online petition calling on the Football League to “drop its pursuit” of Massimo Cellino.
The League says the Italian businessman breached its its Owners’ and Directors’ Test after he was found guilty under Italian tax legislation relating to the non-payment of import duties on a boat, which resulted in a £500,000 (€600,000) fine.
The 58-year-old was asked to resign from the Championship club on Monday.
“Leeds United Supporters” established petition on change.org – a website that targets social change – asking the Football League to review its position.
The number of signatories has now passed 8,000.
The petition states: “We would like to bring your attention to your charter which states that ‘The Football League is committed to providing excellent service to its stakeholders and club supporters.
“‘The League is a listening organisation, which aims to be open and fair in its dealings with all persons representing the interests of the game.’
“With the above in mind we strongly request that you act in the best interests of Leeds United Football Club and release a statement confirming that you agree that forcing Massimo Cellino out of Leeds United would not be acting in the club’s best interests…”
The online petition claims that Cellino has turned around Leeds United’s “precarious financial position” since he purchased the club six months ago.
It adds “Under his control, the club’s debt and operating expense have reduced.
“Leeds United have signed 15 players – many of whom seem to be extremely talented and don’t demand the high salaries that can often force clubs into administration.
“For the first time since the turn of the century, Leeds United’s finances seem to be under control.”
The petition continues: “Massimo Cellino has invested a lot of money in Leeds United – initially through his purchase and then through subsequent investment.
“In all probability, if you force him out now, Leeds United would, again, be facing administration.
“Forcing Cellino out of Leeds United is not in the best interests of one of your member football clubs and would in fact, be very damaging indeed.
“Everyone signing this petition is requesting that you allow common sense to prevail and that you drop your pursuit of Cellino, attempting to force him out of Leeds United.”
