Leeds consider next step as star is handed huge six-match ban

Liam Cooper: Banned for six games

Leeds will consider whether to launch an appeal to the FA after defender Liam Cooper was handed a six-match ban for violent conduct.

The centre-half was handed the suspension after being found guilty of stamping on the head of Reading defender Tyler Blackett during Saturday’s 1-0 defeat for the Whites.

Cooper will now miss the club’s Championship run-in against Preston (h), Newcastle, (a), Wolves (h), Burton (a), Norwich (h) and Wigan (a); only returning should the club make the play-offs.

Speaking about the suspension, United’s chief executive Ben Mansford said in a statement: “We are disappointed by the FA’s decision to ban Liam Cooper for six matches following an incident in our game with Reading on Saturday.

“After careful consideration and consultation with the club, Liam pleaded guilty to the charges brought against him as he acknowledges that the coming together with Reece Oxford was reckless.

“However, in my experience Liam is an honest and genuine person who would never intend to hurt another player. Liam is a leader and his influence in the dressing room will still play a major role in the remaining fixtures this season.”

The defender was charged with violent conduct in relation to the incident in the 74th minute of the game against Reading and was not seen by the match officials at the time, but caught on video.

The suspension of six matches includes the standard one additional match for it being his second dismissal of this season.