Redfearn delighted for Bellusci but warns against rushing him back

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The Leeds defender could return to action after his recent suspension.

Leeds United boss Neil Redfearn is delighted Giuseppe Bellusci’s charge of racism was unproven by the FA, according to the Yorkshire Evening Post.

Bellusci was accused of racially abusing Norwich City forward Cameron Jerome but was cleared by the FA last week.

And Leeds boss Redfearn has expressed his pleasure that the Italian – as well as the Elland Road outfit themselves – can now move on from the unsavoury incident.

The 49-year-old did warn, however, that Bellusci can’t be rushed back as he still needs to get back up to speed with the rest of the Leeds squad.

Liam Cooper, then, could still start for the Yorkshire side at Reading on Tuesday night, with Redfearn confirming that he should be fit for the clash despite suffering a knock against Brentford.

“It’s good all round,” the United boss told reporters. “It’s good for the club and the name of the club and it’s good for the lad.

“What [was said to have] happened didn’t happen so we all move on. Beppe’s missed the last couple of games so he’s got to get himself up to speed again.”

Considering Sol Bamba’s impressive form since arriving at Elland Road on loan, one would assume Cooper would be the one to make way for Bellusci should he eventually return to the Leeds starting XI.

As Opta stats show, though, it is perhaps a more even contest than first thought. Against Brentford, Bamba won more interceptions but his partner at centre-back made more clearances and was better in the air.