Leeds United chief executive Angus Kinnear has taken a swipe at Liverpool’s principal owner John Henry by comparing his apology over plans to join a European Super League to a hostage video.
Liverpool were one of six English sides, along with Arsenal, Chelsea, Manchester City, Manchester United and Tottenham Hotspur who initially signed up for the proposed tournament that threatened to be a closed shop private members’ club, rather than one qualified for on merit.
Their first fixture after the shock announcement was made was away to Leeds United and the Reds were given a hostile reception both on and off the pitch at Elland Road.
Although Liverpool and the other Premier League rebels have now all performed U-turns, which included Mr Henry’s piece to camera in which he said sorry to his club’s management, staff and supporters, Leeds United CEO Mr Kinnear has criticised his actions with a hard-hitting riposte.
Writing in his programme notes for the game against Tottenham Hotspur on Saturday, Leeds Live quote him as saying: “The fall-out from the failed European Super League proposal has continued, and while the demonstration at Old Trafford stole the headlines, it is the nascent regulatory work of the Premier League, the FA and UEFA that will have the longest-lasting impact.
“Fortunately, the footballing world has not been fooled by the hollow expressions of contrition (even when delivered in the compelling format of a hostage video) and recognise the protagonists ultimately will, over the longer term, remain obdurate in trying to create the football oligopoly they crave.
“However, I believe the new regulations enshrining the principles of meritocracy, sustainability, financial solidarity and formalised supporter consultation will frustrate their ambitions to such an extent it will provoke a number of changes in ownership.”
