Angus Kinnear has strongly given his backing to Leeds United goalkeeper Kiko Casilla amid accusations of racism as he singled out his chief concern regarding The FA's investigation.
The club's managing director has gone on the record to support the goalkeeper after he was charged by The FA earlier in the week for allegedly racially abusing Charlton Athletic's Jonathan Leko.
If found guilty, Casilla would receive a suspension of at least six games.
"This week Kiko Casilla received a charge for an alleged aggravated breach of FA Rule E3," Kinnear wrote in the latest matchday programme.
"As many will have seen reported in the press, it has been suggested that Kiko used discriminatory language during our language during our game with Charlton Athletic in September.
"The club's unequivocal stance is that racism will not be tolerated in any form and this standard is applied across staff, coaches, players and supporters.
"However, it is important to assert that Kiko vehemently denies the allegation and has fully cooperated with the investigation. As well as Kiko's word, he can evidence a long distinguished and unblemished career playing alongside teammates, and against opponents, with an eclectic mix of ethnicities and nationalities."
The former Real Madrid man has been an important player for Leeds this season. He's kept eight clean sheets, the most in the Championship.
There were rumours that he was set for a return to Spain in the summer, but he stayed at the club, having reportedly told Marcelo Bielsa he was determined to make a success of his time in West Yorkshire.
"As a club we fully support such a serious allegation being subject to full investigation and a disciplinary process," Kinnear added.
"Our only concern is that the standard of proof for an FA hearing is not 'beyond all reasonable doubt' but 'on the balance of probability'.
"We believe that in cases of this seriousness the higher standard of proof is more appropriate. This is not because we fear a sporting sanction, but because a man's reputation is stake."
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