Leeds United charged by FA after ‘violating’ misconduct during Newcastle United match

Leeds United have been charged by the FA following their 2-2 draw against Newcastle United last month.

Despite two penalities being awarded to the Magpies, the charge isn’t the result of any on-pitch antics. Towards the end of the match, Eddie Howe was approached and confronted by a home supporter.

This disgruntled fan made his way to the technical area before pushing and shouting abuse in the head coach’s face.

At the time, the supporter was arrested and issued a lifetime ban by Leeds.

And now the club is facing consequences for failing to ensure its supporters conducted themselves in an orderly fashion .

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In a statement, the FA said: “Leeds United FC has been charged with misconduct in relation to crowd control that occurred during its Premier League game against Newcastle United FC on Saturday 13 May 2023.

“It’s alleged that the club failed to ensure its spectators and/or supporters – and anyone purporting to be its supporters or followers – conduct themselves in an orderly fashion and don’t use words or behave in an improper, offensive, violent, threatening, abusive, insulting or provocative way.

“Leeds United FC has until Wednesday 14 June 2023 to provide a response.”

Howe was shaken up and after the match 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 think that’s what happened, but someone might tell me something different. 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. Certainly, 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.”

Asked if what the fan had said had been insulting towards him or his club, Howe said: “It was very much personal to me. You’re used to it in football.”