Bates wanted the FA to recommend an independent review of the Football League sanction which was imposed when the club broke rules on exiting administration this summer.

But the FA insist the Football League have acted in accordance with their own rules and so have rejected his plea.

Last night, United's chief executive Shaun Harvey said: "We are amazed that the Football Association do not feel it is appropriate to intervene in a matter which we believe is fundamentally wrong, and sets a dangerous precedent for the future.

"We will fully reflect on this surprising decision and are taking the advice of our legal team."
Leeds, who were also deducted 10 points for entering administration in the final week of last season, needed just five games to wipe out the 15-point penalty and have now climbed out of the League One relegation zone.

Another victory at Gillingham tomorrow would set a club record of eight wins at the start of a season, beating the previous mark set by Don Revie's Championship winning side in 1973.

The FA board discussed the Leeds case at a meeting on Monday, but only confirmed their decision last night.

A spokesman said: "We received a request from Leeds United to enquire into the way the Football League had dealt with matters. We considered it carefully. Having done so, and considering that the Football League have acted in accordance with their own rules, regulations, and constitution, we do not believe there is a need to enquire any further.

"The original decision was one of the Football League board. The club was given the right to appeal to the other Football League clubs who in turn were given the opportunity to endorse, reduce, or remove the points deduction and they chose to endorse it.

"Leeds United agreed to go through that process which has been fulfilled in accordance with League rules."

Bates may yet decide to take the case to the High Court or seek compensation from the other League clubs who voted to endorse the 15-point penalty should it prevent Leeds winning promotion.

On-loan defender Jamie Clapham, meanwhile, has agreed to extend his stay at Elland Road for another two months.