Bates backs manager Blackwell

LEEDS manager Kevin Blackwell has been given promises any manager would love to hear after meeting new chairman Ken Bates for the first time yesterday.

Almost a week after his takeover of the club, Bates finally sat down with Blackwell to discuss Leeds’ future and their respective ambitions.

Bates has offered the 43-year-old his “unequivocal support” and categorically stated he is under no pressure and that there is no timescale to achieve success.