Leeds United break silence on Ethan Ampadu son’s Galatasaray shirt controversy

Leeds United have issued a statement in support of their captain Ethan Ampadu after images of his son wearing a Galatasaray shirt sparked backlash online.

Ampadu, who has Ghanaian heritage through his father, has no connection to the image, which was shared by his former partner on the social media platform X, formerly known as Twitter.

The controversy stems from the long-standing tension between Leeds United and Galatasaray following the tragic deaths of Christopher Loftus and Kevin Speight, who were killed ahead of a UEFA Cup semi-final against the Turkish side in 2000.

In the statement, Leeds said: “Leeds United are aware of an image circulating online of Ethan Ampadu’s son.

“Ethan separated from his partner several months ago and has no responsibility for the image in question. Ethan is aware of and sensitive to the tragic loss within the Loftus and Speight families.”

The club also appealed for privacy, adding, “Ethan has the full support of everybody at Leeds United. The club will be making no further comment.”

Ampadu has previously paid tribute to the two supporters, laying flowers and a Leeds shirt at Luton Town’s stadium earlier this season to mark the 25th anniversary of the tragedy.