Bates Behind Blackwell

Last updated : 21 January 2005 By Kevin Markey

Bates admitted he does not know too much about Blackwell but will be giving him a chance to prove himself.

"I don't know who these people are but it's a load of b******s," Bates told Sky Sports News.

"I've said to him that I know nothing about his ability but as far as I am concerned I'm giving him my full support.

"It's the dreaded chairman's vote of confidence, but he will be judged on results.

"He's had a difficult time since he took over and I wish him well.

"People have said to me that if the team had showed the level of passion and fight this time last year they would never have been relegated."

He added that his decision to take over Leeds was quickly taken.

"They have more land up here so I could create Elland City rather than Chelsea Village," he joked.

"We had a meeting on Monday at 12 and finished this morning at 2:20.

"It took me eight days to reach an agreement with Roman (Abramovich for the sale of Chelsea) and only four-and-a-half to do this one.

"I think Leeds have demonstrated their potential by what they have done.

"They are well known, had a good run in Europe but they did it too quickly and over-ambitiously.

"I think we can do it again more realistically and with a firmer foundation.

"They did sell the training ground and Elland Road but we have options to buy that land back."

The chairman will make his plans for the club clear in a press conference at Elland Road next week ahead of the Brighton game.