West Yorkshire Police and Leeds City Council respond after reports pubs told not to show Leeds United games

No new advice has been issued to pubs by authorities over televising Leeds United matches, following reports that venues were asked not to show the final games in bars.

Reports on social media this week had suggested that venues had been asked not to show Whites games - with the club potentially on the verge of promotion - in order to comply with social distancing guidelines.

However, West Yorkshire Police and Leeds City Council have confirmed that no new advice has been issued to pubs and bars, which can broadcast matches but must adhere to social distancing rules.

Police said they were not advising against showing Leeds United's games at venues in the city but that pubs must ensure they followed "best practice" in line with current Government guidelines.

Marcelo Bielsa's side take on Barnsley on Thursday in Championship action at Elland Road and the game will be broadcast live on Sky Sports.

United could seal a return to the Premier League with victory against the Tykes if other results go their way in midweek.

The Whites are also being broadcast on Sunday afternoon, when they travel to Pride Park to take on Derby County in what could also become a historic day for the football club.

Games are being played behind closed doors amid the coronavirus pandemic and with pubs and bars reopening in the city centre supporters have been exploring ways in which to watch the remaining fixtures.

It had been suggested that venues were now not showing matches due to specific advice from the police but they say that is not the case.

Superintendent Chris Bowen, who heads operational policing for Leeds District, said: “We are not advising licensed premises against showing televised sport.

"However, venues need to consider the current Government guidance and best practice on social distancing and other considerations in relation to the safe operation of their premises.”

Leeds City Council has also reiterated the same message and say it is up to individual licensed venues to carefully risk assess the showing of football matches while social distancing guidelines remain in place.

The council issued advice for establishments across Leeds on July 4 over safely reopening to meet official Government guidelines.

A number of pubs and bars have been approached for comment by the Yorkshire Evening Post.