EFL delays decision on Leeds ‘spying’ controversy
LONDON: The English Football League (EFL) delayed a decision on the Leeds United ‘spygate’ controversy on Friday as they continue to investigate and seek clarification in a number of areas.
Leeds manager Marcelo Bielsa admitted last month that his coaching staff had watched all of their opponents in training this season after one of them was removed from Derby County’s training ground the day before their Championship clash.
Following Derby’s 2-0 defeat at Elland Road, the EFL launched a formal investigation into the incident which Derby coach Frank Lampard described as ‘unethical’. In a statement on Friday, the EFL said: “Following a comprehensive review of all available evidence, it was determined that there remain a number of areas that require further exploration and clarification.
“These investigations will take place at the earliest opportunity. An update on this matter will be provided following receipt and analysis of those subsequent enquiries and until this point no further comment will be made.”
Representatives of the Championship (second-tier) clubs were not involved in the EFL board meeting to avoid potential conflicts of interest.
Leeds, who in their heyday were three-time champions of the English top flight as well as winners of the FA Cup and League Cup, apologised to Derby and reminded Bielsa of the Yorkshire club’s principles of “integrity and honesty”.
Meanwhile, Manchester United legend Paul Scholes has finally been given the go-ahead to take his first steps in management with Oldham Athletic.
Issues surrounding Scholes’ part-ownership of Salford City were ironed out during a two-day EFL board meeting.
Scholes has been allowed to retain a stake in Salford, who are gunning for promotion from the National League. The board deemed that there is no conflict of interest and that decision will not change should the Class of 92’s side end up in the same division as Oldham next season.
It means the 44-year-old is free to begin work at Boundary Park. Scholes had agreed an 18-month deal with his boyhood club some time ago but was waiting on clearance.
EFL rules prevent anyone holding roles with two clubs at the same time without prior consent. A stake of 10 per cent or less, which Scholes has at Salford, is overlooked if seen as ‘purely for investment purposes’.