Leeds are disingenuously creating a process defence which many Leeds fans have predictably rallied around. Who wouldn't rally around when there's a witch-hunt afoot against one of our own? But who cares about process? What really matters is did Hardaker commit an offence or not? I suspect he did, and the "it's only on-field banter/sledging" argument is weak and simplistic in a contemporary context. In the scales of offence this time compared to last the word/words were slightly less offensive, were slightly less viscously spewed out and, of course were not directed at a referee.
Personally I would have sacked him last time. Having not done so then it is difficult for the club to now, even before the defence they put out. He may be the best young player in the league but lesser players would have gone for what he did and there should be no exceptions.
There is also a culture aspect to this - Leeds have been strong under Sinfield's leadership for the past decade partly because, fundamentally, they were good people working hard and that helped create a strong team bond. The "good vs evil" divide in the league by Andy Wilson on SL Backchat reference Leeds and some other clubs vs Wigan does not relate to on-field thuggery alone. Imperfect, less dedicated individuals have gradually been weeded out of Leeds. Once again, Hardaker should be no exception.
