Leeds United director Edoardo Cellino suspended and fined by FA over Facebook row with fan

Leeds United director Edoardo Cellino has been suspended from all football-related activity for the next three matches following a row with a fan on social media. Cellino, the son of outspoken owner Massimo Cellino, engaged in a heated disagreement with a Leeds supporter on Facebook.

During the course of a private message exchange, Cellino is reported to have abused the fan, calling him a "moron" and a "sp**tic". According to The Football Association (FA), Cellino's comments represent an "aggravated breach" as they relate to a disability.

The Leeds director has apologised and denied the charge levelled against him. However, following an Independent Regulatory Commission hearing on Monday (18 April), he has been handed a suspension that begins immediately, effectively running for the rest of the season – Leeds only have three matches left and cannot qualify for a play-off place.

Cellino – whose father assumed control of Leeds in 2014 – was also fined £5,000 and warned about his future conduct. The Leeds director was also told by the FA that he must complete an education course within four months.