Leeds put Bowyer on transfer list

Ridsdale: Bowyer broke the club's code of conduct

Leeds United issued a statement to explain why Lee Bowyer was put on the transfer list.

The midfielder was found not guilty of affray and grievous bodily harm with intent in relation to an assault on Asian student Sarfraz Najeib but was fined by Leeds for breaking the club's code of conduct.

The statement, from chairman Peter Ridsdale, read as follows:

"Following the conclusion of the trial last Friday, Leeds United Football Club, as previously indicated, has reviewed appropriate internal disciplinary action, against Lee Bowyer and Jonathan Woodgate.

"The club acknowledges and accepts the verdict of the jury that Lee Bowyer was innocent off all charges.

Bowyer refused to pay fine

"Nevertheless, and in his own admission, he was under undue influence of alcohol in the city centre late at night, which is against the club's code of conduct.

"Jonathan Woodgate was found guilty of affray and was sentenced at Hull Crown Court.

"The PFA maximum fine ceiling is two weeks' wages.

"Following the internal disciplinary meeting between the manager David O'Leary and myself, Jonathan Woodgate has been given a fine of eight weeks' wages.

"Jonathan has asked that this money be put towards funding work with our inner-city communities, which we are more than happy to agree to.

"Jonathan will commit to work within our community programme. Jonathan has also been given a final warning regarding his future conduct.

"Leeds United have imposed a fine of four weeks' wages against Lee Bowyer, and we would also insist that Lee work at the forefront of our community programme for the whole of the balance of his contract.

"Lee has also been warned regarding his future behaviour on and off the field.

"Regrettably, Lee has refused to accept this club disciplinary sanction, and has therefore been placed on the transfer list with immediate effect.

"As a result of this, Lee Bowyer will not be available for team selection by David O'Leary unless he accepts the club's disciplinary sanction."

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