Leeds United fined after assault on Eddie Howe

Back in May, a Leeds United fan assaulted Eddie Howe.

This happening during the 2-2 draw at Elland Road, when the supporter made his way to the NUFC dugout ‘technical’ area.

In September, the Leeds United supporter in question was jailed and got a six year football banning order (see below), having admitted common assault and entering the playing area.

Now on Monday (23 October 2023), Leeds United themselves have been punished for the incident.

Leeds United fined £40,000 by The FA, with £20,000 of that fine suspended until the end of next season.

An independent regulatory commission deciding the size of the sanction.

Leeds United have also been warned about their future conduct.

Leeds United admitted breaching FA Rule E21.1, which states, a club must ensure spectators conduct themselves in an orderly fashion during matches and do not use words or behave in a way that is improper, offensive, violent, threatening, abusive, indecent, insulting or provocative.

West Yorkshire Police official statement – 8 September 2023:

A Leeds United supporter who assaulted the Newcastle United manager during their match at Elland Road has been jailed and given a six-year football banning order.

David Derbyshire, aged 35, of Marley Street, Beeston, was given a 12-week custodial sentence by a district judge when he appeared at Leeds Magistrates Court today.

At a hearing on July 21, he pleaded guilty to charges of entering the playing area at a designated football match without lawful excuse and common assault against Eddie Howe during extra time at Elland Road on May 13 this year.

The court heard that Derbyshire had left the stand in the 93rd minute and approached the Newcastle dugout and had a verbal altercation with Mr Howe before pushing his left shoulder.

He was quickly apprehended by club security staff and arrested by West Yorkshire Police officers. The incident was broadcast live on national television.

Derbyshire has also been given a lifetime ban from Elland Road by Leeds United.

Chief Superintendent Richard Close, who led the policing operation at the match, said: “Criminal behaviour of this kind is completely unacceptable, particularly where club staff or players are targeted during a large-scale sports event such as this. I know that fans of the sport, regardless of their club affiliations, will join us in condemning anyone who acts in this way.

“We will always treat incidents like this very seriously and we work closely with Leeds United and visiting clubs to fully investigate any offences and take robust action against those responsible, including seeking football banning orders against them.”