RUFC - Clubs need help NOW - Bates

Rotherham United this week got help from one of the most colourful figures in English League football when Ken Bates spoke out and said 'The Football League should do more' to help clubs before they go into administration.

Bates, Chairman of Leeds United, speaking to The Advertiser said, 'The Football League have a responsibility to help clubs and should consider setting up a task force who can advise clubs in difficulties rather than leaving them to their own devices.'

Bates took Leeds United in and out of administration last season and at the present time is challenging the League over the decision to dock the West Yorkshire club fifteen points.

'Of course, I don't know the full facts regarding Rotherham but they could be the third club to go into administration this year and I suspect there could be more out there. My advice would be to go into administration, get it out of the way and have a fresh start. The important thing after that is to run your club on a proper business like basis and pay your taxes. Administration for us put the mess of the past behind us and we are now trading profitably.'