As the dust settles on the Leeds United v Football League 15 point deduction saga, it has come to light that the club were ordered to pay the legal costs incurred by the league in defending the action. Without knowing the exact figures it is clear that these costs, added to United's own, will run into many thousands of pounds.
The failed action has served to highlight that the present administration rules regarding CVA's are far from satisfactory, and no doubt the Football League will now look to put measures in place so that HMRC and individual clubs come to a more suitable arrangement regarding Inland Revenue debt. Lord Mahwinney himself stated that '...discussions with HMRC will continue.' This will probably ensure that no other club incur the 25 point total penalty that Leeds United's administration cost them.
Luton Town, themselves at risk of a further 15 point deduction, are happy that Leeds United had the financial 'muscle' to challenge the decision and highlight the problem. Stephen Browne, director of LTFC2020, saying: 'If nothing else what it's done for all football clubs is it has gained a commitment from the Football League to clarify and write down rules for what the situation is.' It therefore appears that the Whites have been fighting a crusade which will ultimately only benefit other clubs.
So after all is said and done...was the appeal worth it? Give your opinion in our online poll.
