Leeds United assistant manager banned for vital Championship clash as FA release statement

Leeds United assistant manager Christopher John will be absent from the away dugout at Queens Park Rangers tomorrow night. John is set to serve a one-match touchline ban after accepting the Football Association's misconduct charge relating to an incident during the Whites' recent loss to Blackburn Rovers.

John was shown a straight red card by referee James Bell as the United bench protested the non-award of a penalty in dying embers of the Elland Road clash. Whites boss Daniel Farke and company felt striker Patrick Bamford had been fouled in the box.

Farke said: "My staff members were appealing for a red card, it's also quite normal at the crunch time period. You also have to understand the emotions, especially after what happened the other night. I have to ask for the explanation.”

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A statement released on the Football Association's website on Thursday morning read: "Leeds United’s assistant manager has been suspended from the touchline for one match and fined £2,000 after misconduct at their EFL Championship game on Saturday 13 April.

"Christopher John admitted that his behaviour was improper during the 97^th minute. An independent Regulatory Commission imposed his sanctions following a subsequent hearing."

Buoyed after an enthralling 4-3 win at Middlesbrough, United head to the capital looking to put more distance between themselves and third-placed Ipswich Town. Three points against the R's would move the Whites four points clear of the Tractor Boys in the race for automatic promotion.

Ipswich visit play-off chasing Hull City on Saturday night. They also still have to play Coventry City and Huddersfield Town in their run-in.