Bates confirms Shep talks
10 Sep 2007 - 14:36:37
Leeds United chairman Ken Bates has confirmed weekend reports suggesting he had spoken to Freddy Shepherd recently, but insists he is not about to sell the League One side to the former Newcastle United supremo.
Bates says he discussed future investment opportunities with Shepherd but is adamant that he has no plans to sell United.
He told Yorkshire Radio: "This is inspired speculation because Freddy and I had lunch last week in Newcastle.
"But he's not about to swoop in a 'sensational deal' for Leeds and I'm not about to sell it either.
"Inevitably the subject of football came up, and he's still a bit sore about what happened at Newcastle. He'd like to get back in and I would like an investor, so the two fit in.
"Freddy is a wise old man - although he's younger than me - he's experienced and he would be an ideal partner, but it's gossip. I'm here for the long haul."