Keith Wyness, Everton’s former manager, has warned Leeds United will “cause a problem” in their fanbase if they enhance hospitality packages at Elland Road.
Speaking on the latest episode of Football Insider’s Inside Track podcast, the 66-year-old, who was CEO of Goodison Park from 2004 to 2009 and now runs a football consultancy that advises elite clubs, claimed corporate developments will be a “sticking plaster for a real problem” at the Yorkshire club.
Speaking to TBR Football (9 September), finance expert Kieran Maguire stated that Leeds’ immediate focus will be on increasing the hospitality offerings at Elland Road.
Following their recent success at the Yorkshire giants, the Whites’ season ticket waiting list is now 20,000 strong.
Leeds have previously considered extending their renowned stadium to about 50,000 seats, up from its existing 37,890 capacity – but those ambitions appear to have been suspended following relegation in 2023.
According to Wyness, modifications at Elland Road may ‘create an issue’ for Leeds fans.
Wyness emphasized that expanding hospitality areas would only be a short-term solution to enhance revenue.
He told Football Insider’s Insider Track podcast: “It’s a band-aid for a serious problem at Leeds.”
“Elland Road is a good stadium, but it is tired and old, much like Everton’s Goodison Park.”
“I can image Angus Kinnear tearing his hair out because they’re in the Championship, where it’s difficult to justify investing in a long-term stadium plan.
“You have to try to generate revenue through short-term remedies in places.
“I believe it will generate a problem among the Leeds fans.
“They see the season ticket lines, but they will also perceive a reduction in available seats when additional corporate sections come in.
“The entire problem boils down to player salaries and transfer costs. Fans enjoy it when new players join, but they dislike paying the higher ticket fees.”
