Becchio Rumours Quashed By Boss

Last updated : 16 January 2013 By .

The Argentinian frontman has been the subject of much transfer speculation having bagged 19 goals for Leeds so far this season, with Roberto Martinez's Latics one of a handful of sides reported to be keen on his services.

Those rumours only intensified tonight as Becchio missed United's 2-1 FA Cup third-round replay victory at Birmingham, with twitter rife with reports the 29-year-old was at Dean Court.

But Warnock insists Becchio missed out due to illness and was safely tucked up in his house.

"I've heard the rumours but I think he has texted Shaun Harvey (Leeds chief executive) to say he is at home," said Warnock.

"So he's obviously heard the rumours."

He added: "We lost Becchio this morning, he came off training yesterday and said he felt sick. And then the doc said the morning he was sick in the night so he didn't travel."

Warnock confirmed he was not aware of any bids for Becchio.

And asked whether he thought the striker wanted to stay at Elland Road, he replied: "We'll see. I can't tell you anything other than that.

"I spoke to the owners today and in due course we'll probably speak about that."

Wade Elliott put Birmingham ahead tonight shortly after the half-hour mark, just as he had done in the initial meeting which finished 1-1 10 days ago.

But once again Leeds levelled after the break, this time courtesy of Ross McCormack's first goal since September, before El-Hadji Diouf then quickly completed the turnaround, keeping his cool to chip home from the penalty spot after Paul Robinson had been penalised for handball.

It means Leeds will now host Tottenham in the fourth round of the competition in a televised clash next Sunday.

Warnock added: "It's a great tie in the next round - Leeds v Tottenham, it whets the appetite."