Leeds outline Ramadan pause for Joel Piroe and Norwich players, condemn boos at Man City match | OneFootball

Leeds United have asked supporters to respect a planned pause in Sunday’s FA Cup fifth-round tie with Norwich City so Muslim players, including striker Joel Piroe, can break their Ramadan fast, the club said in a statement.

The stoppage is due shortly after sunset in Leeds at 5:56pm, expected around the 75th minute. The referee will briefly halt play to allow players to take on fluids and energy supplements in line with agreed protocol.

The club also addressed boos heard at Elland Road during the Man City match last weekend, when referee Peter Bankes paused the game for a fast break. It pointed to mitigating circumstances and acknowledged it should have communicated plans more clearly to fans.

This was the first time an Elland Road match had been paused for Ramadan. A big-screen message explaining the stoppage was not visible for roughly 25 per cent of the stadium, including the South Stand.

The club condemned any supporters, home or away, who boo players observing Ramadan and use the protocol to break their fast.

Football still has work to do to eradicate racism, homophobia, tragedy chanting and Jimmy Saville taunts directed at Leeds fans. Sunday offers a chance to show the best of the club, with everyone welcome at Elland Road.

Source: yorkshireeveningpost.co.uk