There is a slight possibility that the 18-month ban for Leeds United Owner Massimo Cellino could be delayed, according to a Yorkshire Evening Post journalist.
Reporter, Phil Hay, tweeted the following that suggests the Italian could have his 18-month footballing ban delayed.
Cellino's 18-month FA ban due to start next Wed. FA telling us it's still to decide whether ban will be delayed if appeal runs beyond Feb 1.
— Phil Hay (@PhilHay_) January 23, 2017
Cellino's previous Football League bans were both delayed pending outcome of appeals. Unlikely that this appeal will be heard before Feb 1.
— Phil Hay (@PhilHay_) January 23, 2017
The Italian opted to appeal his 18-month ban after being found guilty of breaching transfer regulations when the Whites sold Ross McCormack to Fulham in 2014, a deal which included a £185,000 payment to a unlicensed advisor.
Speaking when he was originally sentenced, the former Cagliari owner stated in a Club statement:
“I am not guilty and I will take the right steps to defend myself through the tribunal.
“I feel that I am guilty of one thing – protecting Leeds United since I took charge of the club. I ask the players, manager and my staff to continue to work with loyalty and professionalism and to keep fighting every day I am sure that the public in this country and the free press will take the time to look into this case and find the truth.”
Cellino first took control of the Sky Bet Championship side in 2014, before taking totalitarian control last year.
Since then, Cellino has sold a 50% share to Italian Media mogul Andrea Radrizzani in a deal which features the possibility of Radrizzani taking 100% of the shares should the Whites remain in the Championship – the set-up will remain however if the Yorkshire side is promoted to the top-flight.
This is the third time Cellino faces suspension from the Football Association, with the Italian being banned twice before in the past for tax evasion on his yacht and a Range Rover.