Leeds Fans Set To Protest

Leeds United fans have planned a protest against Ken Bates' chairmanship before this afternoon's visit of Middlesbrough, but Simon Grayson insists his team will not be affected.After chants of 'Bates out' could be heard by certain sections of the Whites support in their first two matches of the season against Southampton and Bradford, there is expected to be an outside demonstration before today's Championship match.But Grayson, from the North Yorkshire town of Bedale, is adamant his squad will not be distracted by any of the events that may occur in the stands or outside the stadium."The players have to be focused and put in a performance. Unless you have earmuffs on, it is very difficult not to hear things," said Grayson.
"What you have to make sure you do is fully concentrate on what you are doing. If we are winning matches, it doesn't become so much of an issue."I have to say the only time I have had a problem with the crowd here was early on as Elland Road had become a difficult place for the players to play. In the two-and-a-half years since then, the fans have backed the team."

Grayson expects to have Robert Snodgrass, Max Gradel and Darren O'Dea available after they spent the last week on international duty and missed the victory over Bradford in the Carling Cup.

The Leeds boss is still on the look out for new players, having been in the mix to sign Julio Arca, who signed a new two-year contract at the Riverside yesterday and is in line to play for Middlesbrough today.

Grayson said: "We had a deal agreed but the goalposts were moved at the last minute. International week is frustrating as you can't work with the players until Friday, meaning you have one day's preparation for the game.

"I suppose that comes with having international players in your squad and we have to live with it. It will be worse for the Premier League managers as their season has not even started yet."

Middlesbrough also had their share of internationals away from their squad, with Barry Robson, Tarmo Kink, Scott McDonald and Rhys Williams all away from Teesside.

But Grayson said: "Middlesbrough are a team in transition but with good players. Tony has had time to implement his ideas so we know we are in for a tough time. But it is an opportunity to get three points."