Boos during Ramadan pause ‘disappointing’- Leeds United

Leeds United have said loud boos during a brief pause in play to allow players observing Ramadan to break their fast in Saturday’s match at Elland Road were “disappointing”.

In the 13th minute of the 17:30 GMT kick-off in the Premier League, players from Leeds and visitors Manchester City came to the side of the pitch to take in fluids and energy supplements.

But there was a cacophony of jeers and whistles throughout the break which lasted about a minute.

Leeds did not comment on the matter when contacted by BBC Sport on Saturday.

Comments under Leeds‘ Instagram posts from the weekend have been inundated with messages about Ramadan and the reaction of supporters to the break.

It is understood a number of fans have emailed the club expressing their anger at the lack of public response from the club, with one saying they were “deeply disturbed” and “embarrassed” by what took place.

In a generic email reply sent by Leeds‘ supporter liaison officer, seen by BBC Sport, it said: “The club is aware of the incident and it was disappointing that some supporters chose to boo during the pause in play to allow players observing Ramadan to break their fast.

“The club is currently looking into why this happened and what can be done moving forwards to prevent incidents of a similar nature happening again in the future.”

Leeds manager Daniel Farke was asked about the matter in his pre-match news conference before Tuesday’s Premier League game against Sunderland at Elland Road (19:30).

“To be honest, if it was really disrespectful in these terms because of the break, then you have to say we all have to learn out of this,” he said.

“During the game, it was not my feeling because it was a surprise for everyone that there was this little break.”

A similar pause might take place during the second half of Sunday’s FA Cup tie against Norwich City at Elland Road and Leeds are aiming to provide information on it beforehand. (BBC)