Leeds United punishment made public after serious ‘rule break’ against Newcastle United

Leeds have been fined £40,000 and warned by the FA for breaching FA Rule E21.1 during a 2-2 draw with Newcastle last season.

An FA statement read: “Leeds United have been fined £40,000, with £20,000 suspended until the end of the 2024/25 season, and warned as to their future conduct for breaching FA Rule E21.1 at the Premier League game involving Newcastle United on Saturday 13 May 2023.

“Leeds United admitted that they failed to ensure their spectators and/or supporters (and anyone purporting to be supporters or followers) conduct themselves in an orderly fashion and don’t use words or behaviour which are improper, offensive, violent, threatening, abusive, insulting or provocative.

“An independent Regulatory Commission imposed these sanctions following a hearing and their written reasons for them can be seen below.”

During the match, Newcastle head coach Eddie Howe was confronted by a Leeds fan who had made his way to the technical area.

The offender, David Derbyshire, was given a 12-week prison sentence and a six-year football banning order at Leeds Magistrates Court on Friday, September 8.

In a hearing on July 21, Derbyshire pleaded guilty to charges of entering the playing area at a designated football match without lawful excuse and common assault against Newcastle boss Eddie Howe during the 93rd minute of the match that took place at Elland Road on May 13.

The incident was broadcast live on BT Sport and saw the supporter approach Howe in his technical area and engage in a verbal altercation before pushing the Newcastle boss on the shoulder.

Reflecting on the incident, Howe said: “It’s such a strange thing, because you’re concentrating on the game. He confronted me, said something I can’t repeat, and then he’s led away.

“I’m okay. Moments like that do make you think. The safety of staff, players is paramount for me. We need to be mindful. Security is so important.

“I don’t know if I had time to be fearful. It makes you think, Those sorts of situations, no-one should have to face that. No-one should have to feel that their own personal safety is violated.

“[What was said] was very much personal to me. You’re used to it in football.”