Friday 3 February 2017 14:49, UK
The Football Association has confirmed that Leeds' co-owner Massimo Cellino's suspension and fine for breaching its football agent regulations have been reduced.
Charges were brought against the Italian and Leeds last year over the transfer of Ross McCormack from the club to Fulham in July 2014 but, following an appeal, Cellino's 18-month suspension has been reduced to 12 months.
However, while his £250,000 fine has also been reduced to £100,000, Cellino's appeal against the original decision of the Independent Regulatory Commission has been dismissed meaning he "is suspended from all football and football related activity" as of February 18.
A £250,000 fine issued to Leeds has also been reduced to £200,000 following the appeal.
A club statement said Leeds were "disappointed" by Cellino's fine and ban and called him "the integral leader" of their impressive showing in the Sky Bet Championship so far this season.
"Leeds United Football Club can confirm that it has today been partially successful in its appeal against the original decision connected to this matter. The club's fine for allegedly breaching FA Agents Regulations has been reduced from £250,000 to £200,000," the statement said.
"Although the appeal has been successful, the club remains disappointed by the outcome and the size of the fine that remains. The club are also incredibly disappointed by the fine and ban imposed upon Mr Cellino, despite reductions following the appeal.
"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."
The FA said it would provide written reasons behind its decision in due course.
"Massimo Cellino's 18-month suspension for breaching The FA's Football Agent Regulations has been reduced to 12 months following a successful appeal. The Leeds United owner also had his £250,000 fine reduced to £100,000," an FA statement said.
"Cellino also appealed against the original decision of the Independent Regulatory Commission to find the case proven. This part of his appeal was dismissed. A £250,000 fine issued to the club has also been reduced to £200,000 after an Appeal Board hearing.
"The charges against Cellino and the club relate to the transaction involving the transfer of Ross McCormack from Leeds to Fulham on 8 July 2014.
"With effect from 18 February 2017, Cellino is suspended from all football and football related activity. The other sanctions set down by the original Independent Regulatory Commission in this matter remain. Written reasons will be provided in due course."
Cellino recently sold a 50 per cent stake in Leeds to Italian businessman Andrea Radrizzani.
