Leeds United owner Massimo Cellino to fight 18-month FA ban

Leeds United owner Massimo Cellino has come forward to address reports that the Football Association plan to ban and fine him.

The Italian businessman is reportedly facing a lengthy ban and a £250k fine after being found guilty of breaching rules regarding football agents.

Cellino is accused of making an illegal payment to an unlicensed agent over the £10.75m transfer of striker Ross McCormack to Fulham back in 2014.

But before there is any official announcement by the FA, Cellino has issued a statement in which he vowed to defend himself at a tribunal.

Cellino said: “I am surprised to read the news regarding the FA’s intentions to ban and fine me, as well as fine the Club. I am not guilty and I will take the right steps to defend myself through the tribunal.

“I feel that I am guilty of one thing, protecting Leeds United since I took charge of the Club. I ask the players, manager and my staff to continue to work with loyalty and professionalism and to keep fighting for the Club everyday on and off the pitch.

“I am sure that the public in this country and the free press will take the time to look into this case and find the truth.”

If Cellino is banned, it will be the third time since he became owner of the Championship club in April 2014.