'Difficult time' - Leeds United issue statement after picture of Ethan Ampadu's son wearing Galatasaray shirt circulates online

Leeds fans Christopher Loftus and Kevin Speight were fatally stabbed before their UEFA Cup semi-final clash against Galatasaray in Istanbul in April 2000, and ever since, supporters have held a grudge against the Turkish team. On Thursday, Ampadu's former girlfriend, Saara Sa, posted an image of their child in a Galatasaray shirt on X - angering many Leeds fans. Now the Yorkshire outfit have defended their captain, saying he has their "full support".

The club statement reads: "Leeds United are aware of an image circulating online of Ethan Ampadu’s son. Ethan separated from his partner several months ago and has no responsibility for the image in question. Ethan is aware of and sensitive to the tragic loss within the Loftus and Speight families. The club asks for Ethan’s privacy to be respected in what is a difficult time for him personally. Our captain has been a leader on and off the pitch this season, demonstrating his commitment to the club, its history, and the broader Leeds community. Ethan has the full support of everybody at Leeds United. The club will be making no further comment."

Ampadu has attended several events to commemorate the deaths of Loftus and Speight, with the 24-year-old laying down a shirt and flowers in front of Leeds fans for the 25th anniversary of the tragedy when they faced Luton Town at Kenilworth Road in April. Incidentally, Leeds will return to the Premier League next season after winning the Championship.

Ampadu and his Leeds team-mates are currently enjoying their off-season break before they return to Thorp Arch to begin preparations for life in the Premier League next season.