As a club, Leeds United suffered the deserved indignity of an FA Cup defeat against League Tow Newport County on Sunday. But there was also a personal indignity for Samu Saiz.
The Spanish maestro only came on in the last quarter of the game yet failed to see the final whistle, a straight red card issued after Newport’s winning goal on 89 minutes. Amid accusations of spitting at a Newport player, Saiz was given his marching orders by Premier League referee Mike Dean.
It was a repulsive act, one borne out of frustration, but this should not be used to mitigate what the Spaniard has done. The FA hit him with a six-game ban, as per regulations, and he had the right of appeal – with him being sent off during the game, rather than on video evidence.
However, to his credit, the Spaniard has decided not to contest the charge – indeed he has admitted to what he has done and will face an internal disciplinary procedure from Leeds United themselves.
Saiz has issued an apology, via the club website, where he sincerely apologises for his actions (full statement below) and how this reflects on the club.
Due to accepting his six-game ban, Saiz will not be available for the Whites until February 24th and the visit of Brentford to Elland Road.
Until then, the Whites will have to do without the talented Spaniard who was becoming something of a key player at Elland Road, often the driving force behind all that was good about Leeds United.
Full Statement from Samu Saiz:
“I would like to take this opportunity to sincerely apologise to the players, staff and supporters of Leeds United for my behaviour in yesterday’s game at Newport County AFC.
I would also like to apologise to Newport County AFC and Robbie Willmott for my actions.
I accept the punishment handed to me by The FA.
My actions are inexcusable, I give my word to all those connected to Leeds United Football Club that I will learn from this situation and never repeat it.
I am grateful for the support I receive from our fans and I understand that I am a role model to the next generation of Leeds supporters, I will ensure that my behaviour moving forward reflects that.”
Samu Saiz – Leeds United website – 08.01.18
