Leeds United have issued a statement in relation to allegations of vile chanting in their FA Cup match against Millwall on Saturday. "During today’s FA Cup fourth round tie, we were extremely disappointed to hear vile chants relating to football tragedies," a Leeds statement on social media read. "We will work with the police and Millwall Football Club to identify those involved.". The Lions released a subsequent statement, which read: "We all have a duty to ensure Millwall Football Club is represented proudly and responsibly at all times.
"The club strongly condemns all forms of football tragedy abuse and is appalled to receive reports of such chanting from a minority at today's Emirates FA Cup fixture against Leeds United. "Both clubs have suffered tragic losses to their respective families in recent history. Chanting about this is entirely unacceptable and will not be tolerated by the club or the governing bodies. "It has no place in football and the club will work closely with Leeds United and authorities to identify those responsible.".
Leeds went into the all-Championship affair sitting in top spot in the league, more than 20 points above their opponents. League positions meant nothing at Elland Road, though, with Femi Azeez scoring both goals in a 2-0 victory for the visitors. Pascal Struijk saw a second-half penalty saved as the hosts tried and failed to find a way back into the game. Millwall became the first Championship side to book their place in round five, joining Premier League sides Manchester United and Manchester City.
Leeds boss Daniel Farke made a number of changes to the side which beat Coventry in their last league outing. And, after losing to Millwall, they'll be in a position to focus on the league. "I was so focused on the game," Farke said when asked about fan behaviour in his post-match press conference. "We know this quote - football is more than life or death - this is a silly quote. "Life is always more important than just a football game. The whole community backs this value. This is value I and we as a club live. If someone reached those standards today - I haven't heard it -but they should look into this situation.".
Millwall's win helped continue their recent resurgence under Alex Neil, The Scot was made to wait for his first win after taking over as manager in late December, but Saturday's cup victory followed three successive league victories which helped lift the team into mid-table. Neil's team will return to league action on Wednesday, travelling to Plymouth in the Championship. Leeds are also on the road for their next league game, facing Watford on Tuesday.
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