German police issue statement explaining why Leeds fans have been BANNED from watching newly-promoted club's pre-season matches in the country

Leeds are set for an eight-day visit to the country as they prepare for their Premier League return but will be forced to play friendlies without any supporters. The local police explained it was a security issue.

Police said: "There is an agreement between the Central Information Office for Sports Operations (ZIS) and the German Football Association (DFB) regarding international test matches. Every planned test match with international participation is checked for certain security aspects. If even one of these security-relevant requirements is not met, such a test match can only be assessed negatively from a police perspective. To ensure that a match can still take place, the clubs have the option of excluding spectators from the event."

Leeds fans had initially been asked not to attend friendlies when the club headed to Germany last summer, with Euro 2024 security arrangements cited as the reason at the time. They expected to be able to host supporters this time around but the same stance has been taken.

Leeds are gearing up for the 2025/26 Premier League after two years in the Championship. They host Everton in the first Monday night game of the new campaign.