Football: Leeds make threat

LEEDS UNITED, one of seven clubs due to stage matches during the 1996 European Championship finals, yesterday made a veiled threat to withdraw Elland Road as a venue unless they receive a larger share of the gate receipts from the Football Association.

Leslie Silver, the Leeds chairman, claimed that the other host clubs shared their concern because Uefa rules allow them only a 10 per cent cut from the gate money.

Silver confirmed that the clubs would meet 'within a fortnight' to discuss a combined approach. He pointed out that the FA, restaurants, hotels and other businesses were set to make 'a lot of money', whereas the clubs could end up out of pocket.

Southend United will next week attempt to condemn Birmingham City, presently fourth from bottom in the First Division, to almost certain relegation by proposing punishment for the alleged poaching of their manager, Barry Fry. Vic Jobson, the Southend chairman, is to press an enquiry to introduce an immediate rule deducting nine points from any club found guilty of the offence.

Lou Macari, the Celtic manager, yesterday signed Willie Falconer, the Sheffield United midfielder, for pounds 375,000.

Ian Rush, who had been upset at the treatment of Terry Yorath, last night withdrew his threat not to play for Wales.

Terry Venables has been issued with a High Court writ by the National Westminster Bank, which claims he owes pounds 66,493 on personally guaranteed loans taken out three years ago by a company involved in the public house trade.