Leeds appeal for investment

Speculation is gathering pace regarding the future of Leeds, all-but relegated to League One on Saturday, with some reports claiming the club could go into administration within seven days.

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But the club have vehemently denied there was a emergency board meeting at Elland Road this morning.

There are also rumours of various consortia lining up with takeover offers, while chairman Ken Bates has today insisted plans were already in hand for manager Dennis Wise to get Leeds back up at the first attempt.

Harvey said: "It is important that we take time to reflect on all the factors that have seen us relegated, barring a miracle at Derby next week.

"We need to make considered and structured decisions both on and off the field over the forthcoming weeks to position ourselves to use next season as a springboard to go forward from.

"There will be (and has been) a significant amount of speculation as to what the future holds for the club financially, particularly from would-be investors who want to become involved/own Leeds United.

"This type of speculation is currently rife both at Leeds United and football in general, but our message remains consistent in so much as anyone interested in becoming financially involved should contact us with full details of who they are and proof of funds to show they are able to assist us.

"We will continue to decline to comment on speculation.

"The supporters of the club have been tremendous all season including all those who have contacted the club offering their backing since the result on Saturday (other than the minority involved in the pitch invasion).

"Ticket prices for next season will be announced soon.

"There is no point in looking back as we cannot change the past. What we need to do is positively affect the future to get this great club back to where it should be so we can all be proud of the club again."

BBC Radio Five Live this morning reported that a well-placed source had told them the club could go into administration within a week.

But a Leeds spokesman confirmed: "I can categorically deny there was any board meeting held by Leeds this morning."

And chairman Bates, 75, did not appear to have administration in mind when jumping to defend Wise, who failed to halt the slide at Elland Road after being appointed Kevin Blackwell's successor in October.

Bates said: "Dennis has done a much better job than many people realise.

"We were in a much worse position when Dennis came in than people know about.

"Some of the difficulties he inherited cannot be made public, but there were real problems in the dressing room. The playing side was in complete disarray."

Bates added: "On Monday we will start the first day of the 2007/8 promotion season.

"We can now have a complete clean out and start again. It's time to look forwards, not backwards."