Premiership: I've been victimised - Bowyer

Lee Bowyer has claimed he has been "victimised" by Leeds, after the club placed him on the transfer list.

The midfielder has been put up for sale after refusing to accept a fine of four weeks' wages for breaking the club's code of conduct.

Bowyer was found not guilty of affray and grievous bodily harm with intent in relation to an assault on Sarfraz Najeib.

Leeds have stated he was under the influence of alcohol on the night of the attack.

"The club appears to be victimising me and forcing me out having attempted to impose an unfair penalty," Bowyer said.

Leeds also insisted he undergoes a community programme work for the remainder of his contract and that he will not be made available for selection "unless he accepts the club's disciplinary sanction".

"Leeds United have placed me on the transfer list against my wishes," Bowyer said. "This follows a club disciplinary hearing to which I was not invited."

He claimed: "The club informed me that if I do not accept the punishment imposed, which is in excess of the PFA maximum, then I would not be selected for the first-team and would be placed on the transfer list."

Bowyer insisted: "I have not refused to work in the club's community programme.

"I have done so in the past and would continue to do so as part of Leeds United's normal programme.

"Given these circumstances, I could not accept the disciplinary findings.

"However, I wish to place on record that I still wish to play for Leeds United.

"Having been acquitted of both charges at my recent trial, I was hoping to put this matter behind me and focus on doing my best for Leeds United and the supporters.

"Now the club appears to be victimising me and forcing me out having attempted to impose an unfair penalty by agreement."