Leeds: Cellino’s football ban shortened to 12 months

(Picture: Action Images via Reuters)

Leeds United chairman Massimo Cellino has seen his 18-month ban from football reduced to 12 months after a successful appeal.

The controversial Italian, who took over at Elland Road in 2014, was given his initial suspension in December after the Football Association ruled he had breached their agent regulations during the transfer of Ross McCormack to Fulham.

The ban also included a fine of £250,000 for Cellino and Leeds, but the 60-year-old’s fine has been reduced to £100,000 and Leeds’ fine has been reduced to £200,000.

This is the third ban given to Cellino since he took over in Yorkshire, and a club statement said they were ” disappointed by the outcome”, adding: “Mr Cellino is responsible for significantly reducing the club’s debt and wage bill as well as the appointment of Garry Monk.

“Mr Cellino has been the integral leader of the club’s re-emergence this season.

“The club will now consider all options with its legal team before making any further comment.”

Cellino’s ban will begin on February 18th, and Leeds, currently fourth in the Championship, will be hoping this doesn’t become an off-field distraction as they attempt to reach the top-tier of English football.