Leeds United fans were devastated as their time in the Premier League came to an end on Sunday.
The club’s fate was sealed with a 4-1 defeat by Tottenham Hotspur at Elland Road – although wins by Leicester City and Everton would have relegated Leeds to the Second Division regardless of their own result.
The Yorkshire side got promoted back to the big league in 2020 and retained their Premier League status for three years, eventually finishing 19th in that season’s Premier League season.
Sam Allardyce was thrown onto the manager’s hotseat in a late attempt to protect Leeds – but that ultimately failed.
BT Sport’s coverage focused on the fans at Elland Road at the final whistle who clearly cried over the outcome of their season when the last hopes of safety were dashed by Spurs when Harry Kane scored twice in what might be his last game in Tottenham’s shirt.
Sam Allardyce’s Leeds United were relegated from the Premier League with a 4-1 defeat
Many fans were visibly upset after it was confirmed they will be taking part in the championship
The stewards had to stop fans trying to get onto the pitch at Elland Road
Some were also visibly and vocally upset at the club’s failure, as stewards had to hold some fans back, while others heckled at the Leeds players: “You’re not fit to wear the shirt.”
Following the confirmation, Gary McAllister told BT Sport: “It’s a sad day.” I think it’s a Premier League club but they’re in the league now.
“We talk about the level and I felt the level was extreme today, Spurs were excellent, a different level and I thought they won at the gallop.”
“Leeds conceded early and then again in the second half and just after the goal to get back in the game.” It’s a bad day for Leeds United but Spurs were outstanding.
“They were really impressive and Harry Kane was pure class.”
Leeds United are relegated this season alongside Leicester City and Southampton
Fans balked after defeat by Tottenham confirmed a “sad day” for the Yorkshire club
Some fans shared pictures hoping Leeds will be promoted back to the top flight
On the subject of relegation, BT expert Peter Crouch said: “The problem is that you feel like you’ve let people down.”
“You see the fans on the way out, the staff who have been at the club – players come and go – but the fans and staff around the club will always be there and you let them down.”
“There’s a bit of anger here in the stands, disappointing scenes.”
Leeds fans were also quick to attack the club’s hierarchy, including chairman and owner Andrea Radrizzani, after their fate was confirmed.
One said, “Radrizanni the businessman, leave my club.” Cretin. Bye.’
Another added: “A complete disgrace from top to bottom.” That coward Radrizanni honestly thought making a scapegoat of Orta would appease Leeds fans, unaware that we were hurting him and the others Coward Kinnear also want out. Orta’s legacy is the U21. What positives will Radrizzani leave us?’
Leeds fans, including owner Andrea Radrizzani, lashed out at the club’s hierarchy following the relegation
Another angry supporter also slammed chief executive Angus Kinnear, and others joined calls for a restructuring of their board following relegation.
They said, “Amazing that both Radrizzani and Kinnear refrained from submitting columns for the program today. Cowards…” while another quipped, “Radrizzani is a pathetic man.” It’s a shame not to show up. Get out #lufc.’
A final sad supporter highlighted the sad state the club is in after almost three exciting years under Marcelo Bielsa, who had put him on an upward curve when he said: “Leeds are down.” Everything Bielsa has built , lies in ruins. Leaving a record signing on the bench, the Augustin debacle and the entire squad is a mess. Total remodeling required.’
Leeds will be relegated to the Championship alongside Leicester City and Southampton for next season, while Burnley, Sheffield United and Luton Town will replace them in the Premier League.