Leeds United and Millwall players join forces in rare show of unity as clubs make chanting plea to fans

Leeds’ next Championship fixture sees them visit long-time rivals Millwall at The Den on Sunday lunchtime.

The two sides meet for the first time in a number of years due to Leeds’ participation in the Premier League over the past three seasons, and is set to be a feisty encounter on and off the pitch.

Players of both clubs have come together encouraging supporters to be mindful of discriminatory behaviour or tragedy chanting.

In a video released on social media, Millwall attacker Zian Flemming begins the message to fans of both teams: “We can’t wait to welcome you at The Den this Sunday for what promises to be a passionate encounter.

"It’s the passion and love for your club that makes atmospheres like this so special,” Leeds winger Dan James adds.

The message continues: "While we as players, staff and fans want to play in and see passionate atmospheres, we can’t allow this to boil over to the point where people’s matchday experiences are affected in a negative way.

"Anti-discriminatory and tragedy chants, as well as anti-social behaviour are not tolerated at The Den or anywhere else in football.

"Not only will you face severe consequences if found guilty of such crimes, your club will also suffer heavy financial consequences. It doesn’t matter if it’s one person or a group that’s been found guilty, your club will be punished.

"Both clubs have suffered tragic losses to their respective families in recent history. Chanting about either is entirely unacceptable and will not be tolerated by either club or the governing bodies. Don’t put yourself or your club at risk, let’s make this matchday experience an enjoyable one for all.

"Have a safe journey to The Den and we will see you soon. Love football, protect the game,” the video ends, with contributions from Charlie Cresswell, Jamie Shackleton, Crysencio Summerville, Illan Meslier, as well as Millwall trio Billy Mitchell, Wes Harding and Jake Cooper.

The Lions suffered the loss of popular chairman John Berylson in July, who was killed unexpectedly in a car crash in the United States, while Leeds commemorate the lives of supporters Christopher Loftus and Kevin Speight each year on the anniversary of their murder in Istanbul 23 years ago.