FA to investigate Derby complaint alleging that training-ground 'spy' was Leeds staff member

Derby summoned police to their training ground before a man was escorted away
Derby summoned police to their training ground before a man was escorted away Credit: ACTION PLUS

The Football Association is to investigate after Derby County alleged that a man discovered by police watching one of their training sessions on Thursday was an employee of Leeds United, their opponents last night.

Derby’s preparations for the match at Elland Road were unsettled after players and staff spotted a “spy” with binoculars watching them train.

Police were called and officers entered the training complex and escorted the man off the premises, later confirming he had a change of clothes and pliers.

Derby are set to make an official complaint to the Football League and insist they have evidence the ‘spy’ was acting on behalf of their opponents on Friday night. Police have also traced the car being driven by the suspect back to Leeds.

Marcelo Bielsa, the former Argentina and Chile manager, has guided Leeds to the top of the league but the club are now facing possible action from the FA after officials confirmed they will look into Derby’s accusations.

Derby’s statement read: “Derby County Football Club can confirm that officers from the Derbyshire Constabulary were called to the Derby County Training Centre at around 11:20am on Thursday 10th January 2019 following reports of a man acting suspiciously outside the premises.

Frank Lampard's Derby visit Elland Road this evening
Frank Lampard's Derby visit Elland Road this evening Credit: REX

“It has since been confirmed to Derby County that the individual concerned is an employee of the footballing staff at Leeds United Football Club.

“The club is now in discussion with Leeds United club officials in relation to this incident.”

Lampard, the former Chelsea and England midfielder, is understood to have been deeply concerned by the security breach the day before the game.

Derby were beaten 4-1 by Leeds at Pride Park earlier in the season and were eight points behind Bielsa’s team before kick-off.

Training sessions the day before matches are frequently used by managers to work on “shape”, which usually involves the starting XI training together on the pitch.

An FA spokesperson confirmed: “We are aware of the incident at Derby County’s training ground and we will be investigating the matter.”

In a statement, Derbyshire Police said officers were called to the Moor Farm training ground on Thursday morning and a man was spoken to at the perimeter fence.

The statement added: “Officers conducted routine checks which were all above board. Despite media reports, no damage to the fence was found, and the man was stopped outside the grounds.

“No arrests were made and the man was sent on his way.”

The English Football League are also aware of the row and are ready to mediate, adding that it is a matter for the two clubs to resolve.

“It is, of course, up to Derby County as to how they progress this matter but as of yet we have received no complaint or contact from the club,” an EFL spokesman said.

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