Video: Homeless fixture for Leeds United chief

Today, however, United managing director David Haigh had a different task on his hands.

He spent part of the day at the St George’s Crypt charity in Leeds city centre, learning about the work it does on behalf of homeless and vulnerable people.

And during his visit to its base near Leeds General Infirmary he grabbed the opportunity to dish out lunch to some of the service users.

St George’s lead fundraiser Cheryl Harrington said the charity was “delighted” to receive Mr Haigh’s support,

She told the Yorkshire Evening Post: “It wasn’t a publicity stunt, he came along in a personal capacity. He would be out jogging and began noticing people sleeping rough, so he put a message on Twitter asking about homeless charities in Leeds.

“We got in touch straight away and the visit came out of that. He definitely mucked in and got involved, it was good to see. I also know the guys really appreciated meeting someone who is an important figure in the city.”

Mr Haigh said: “The people [at St George’s] work so hard and I have to admit I was amazed to learn how much is done. It’s not simply about providing food or shelter it’s about trying to solve the problem of homelessness and about genuinely trying to help.

“The club has had a long-standing relationship with the Crypt and we’re going to look at ways in which we can help further, whether that’s by job creation or something similar.”

United have donated 200 tickets for this Sunday’s home game against Birmingham City to the charity.

Yesterday’s visit came as Leeds try to strengthen their ties with the local community following the discontent of the club’s Ken Bates era.

Mr Haigh is also doing his personal bit for charity, having announced plans to row the English Channel and tackle the London Marathon in 2014.

• For more details about St George’s Crypt, visit: www.stgeorgescrypt.org.uk