By Rich B
February 9 2004

Question - When you are lying at the bottom of the Premiership having taken just two points from the last nine matches - losing the last seven games - what do you do - You get rid of one of your most passionate and determined players?

Eddie Gray has today announced that he has informed David Batty that he does not feature in his plans and he has paid up his contract until the end of season.  The news will be a blow to Leeds fans around the world who know how determined a player Batty is who will fight for Leeds United at any cost.

The news is most surprising considering the current position and form of the club.  Leeds have not won for 9 matches, losing the last 7 - They lie bottom of the Premiership - 3 points behind their nearest rivals and six points behind safety.  In that position, there would be few Leeds fans that would not want David Batty out on the pitch fighting for the cause.

The news may also add further pressure to Manager, Eddie Gray.  Although a fans favourite in his own right, his managerial record combined with shocking news such as this may turn the fans support into frustration.

We understand that as Batty has been paid until the end of the season, it effectively means his contract can now be torn up, leaving him free to seek a new club.  The question must be asked though why the club is discarding with the services of one player that is paid in full whilst asking the rest to take a pay cut.

 

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