Ridsdale hits out over stadium 'politics'

Leeds United chairman Peter Ridsdale has hit out at members of the city council for “playing politics” with the club’s dream of a new stadium.

Ridsdale revealed his anger at some councillors, who he believes are trying to undermine plans for a new home to replace Elland Road, in comments in Saturday’s matchday programme.

He said: “Everyone is committed to ensuring we have a world-class stadium so we can continue to compete with the best teams in England.

“Whether we build away from Elland Road or develop our existing site, we do need both a co-operative and sympathetic partnership with the local authority.

“There are regrettably some people who feel it is in their best interest to play politics with our aspirations and are therefore proving to be less than helpful.

“Wherever we build, we will pay a fair price for the land and build a stadium that all Leeds supporters can be proud of.”

However Labour councillor Bernard Atha defended the council’s behaviour.

He told the Yorkshire Post: “If they are happy to pay a fair price, then the citizens of Leeds will be happy.

“It’s not about people playing politics, it’s about people doing their duty.

“Anyone reading those comments may feel they are inappropriate if he wants a good relationship to exist.”