Independent, The (London): Football: `I don't think the board know how angry we are'

LEEDS FANS last night demanded the resignations of the plc board following the agreement of a pounds 9m fee with Newcastle for Jonathan Woodgate.

The supporters have reacted with "a mixture of anger and disillusionment", with a number already carrying out threats made last week and handing in their season tickets at Elland Road. Demonstrations are certain to take place at the ground before, during and after next week's FA Cup fourth- round replay with Gillingham.

Simon Jose, co-founder of the Leeds United Independent Fans' Association, has conceded he will canvass opinion from the Association's members before deciding what action to take. He said: "I don't think they [the board] know how angry we are. Many talk about the gross incompetence of the board and express their disbelief at what is happening at our once great club. I think the bottom line is some of the directors now have to go. As one member put it, they have played Russian roulette with the club over the last couple of seasons and they have ended up losing big style.

"It's a sad day for the club, and while I am sure we can play without Woodgate that's not the point. It goes to the ambition of the club and it is obvious they no longer have any."

As for the future of manager Terry Venables, Jose feels certain he will walk away, as he added: "Well, I know I would. Wouldn't you?"