Leeds director ‘should have been prepared for criticism’ - Ken Bates lawyer

Barrister Jacob Dean was speaking on the fourth day of a courtroom battle between Mr Bates and Leeds businessman Mr Levi, who successfully sued the chairman for libel damages in 2009.

Mr Levi and his wife Carole have brought Mr Bates back to court to seek damages for harassment from him, Leeds United and Yorkshire Radio, the radio station which broadcasts live commentary of the club’s matches.

The couple, who claim Mr Bates has “ruined their lives”, also seek an injunction against the chairman to prevent further harassment.

Mr Dean told Leeds County Court that Melvyn Levi should be prepared for criticism after choosing to become involved in football club ownership.

He said: “Mr Levi is a public figure. He chose to enter the world of sport by taking a substantial stake in a football club.

“He knew about the controversy that football club owners can attract if things do not go well.”

Mr Levi claims radio announcements asking for information on his whereabouts during a Leeds match on Boxing Day 2010 likened him to “a fugitive”.

Mr Levi was part of a consortium which took over the club when it was in dire financial trouble in 2004. Mr Bates bought the club in 2005 from a consortium including Mr Levi.

Mr Dean added: “He (Mr Levi) accepted that club owners have to have thick skins.

“He accepted himself that he is not a shrinking violet.”

Mr Dean said that the word “fugitive” was not used in the radio announcement, nor was it suggested that people should go looking for him.

The case continues