Leeds United have released a statement ahead of Sunday’s FA Cup fifth round match against Norwich City.
There were boos in some areas of Elland Road when a Muslim player halted play during a match between Leeds and Man City to allow the players to break their Ramadan fast.
Leeds United have informed fans that play will be suspended again for Sunday’s FA Cup match against Norwich City to allow players to break their Ramadan fast.
This follows last Saturday’s game against Manchester City, which was called off for the same reason and resulted in “unfortunate and unexpected” booing from some Leeds supporters during the match. The incident attracted national attention and led to criticism of the club and its fans.
In a statement, Leeds admitted that their communication around the city break had not been “proactive” enough, and also cited the issue of messages being invisible to everyone at Elland Road.
read more: Josep Guardiola slams fans who booed Ramadan canceled during suspension of Man City vs. Leeds matchread more: Leeds vs Man City match canceled due to booing from fans during Ramadan holiday
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But the dominant message is one of respect and condemnation of the “stain on the game”.
A statement read: “Leeds United Football Club is asking people to show their respect during this Sunday’s FA Cup fifth round match against Norwich City, which will be suspended to allow players who are currently in Ramadan (including our striker Joel Pillow) to break their fast.”
“At the appropriate time of 5.56pm after sunset in Leeds, which will be around the 75th minute of the match against the Canaries, the referee will order a pause in the match to allow players from both teams to rehydrate and replenish their energy in accordance with the agreed protocols.
“Last weekend’s Premier League game against Manchester City was also interrupted and booed by some supporters, which was unfortunate and unexpected.
“While it has taken some time to reflect, there were some mitigating circumstances that led to this. To be clear, Leeds United Football Club unequivocally condemns supporters, in both home and away sections, who actively boo players during Ramadan and take advantage of breaking the fast regulations.”
Leeds vs Man City match was halted at Elland Road for players to break their fast (Image: Getty Images)
“I would like to thank everyone who has taken the time to contact us and provide feedback over the last few days, including our Supporters Advisory Committee, to help us understand exactly why this situation arose against Manchester City and what lessons can be learned going forward.
“We still have a long way to go to eradicate the stains on football, including racism, homophobia, chants of tragedy and the disgusting Jimmy Savile taunts that our own supporters receive from opposing fans at every match.
“As a club, we will continue to strive to ensure that these issues cease to exist in time.
“Sunday’s game against Norwich City is a chance to show the best of Leeds United. Everyone is welcome at Elland Road. Not all Leeds are us.”
