The mother of Ethan Ampadu's child has fiercely criticised Leeds United for allegedly 'stating lies' in their announcement regarding a controversial photo of his son donning a Galatasaray kit, a sore point for Leeds fans given the club's dark history with the Turkish team.

The deep-seated resentment from Leeds supporters towards Galatasaray persists, rooted in the tragic deaths of two Leeds fans, Christopher Loftus and Kevin Speight, during clashes in Istanbul before the UEFA Cup semi-final in 2000. Recently, an image surfaced showing Ampadu's son wearing a Galatasaray shirt, sparking fresh upset among the fanbase.

In response to the photo, Leeds United acted promptly to shield their skipper from the backlash, releasing a statement clarifying that the Wales star is attuned to the profound impact such an image could have on the relatives of the deceased fans.

They elaborated: "Leeds are aware of an image circulating online of Ethan Ampadu's son. Ethan separated from his partner several months ago and has no responsibility for the image in question."

Additionally, the club's statement recognised the delicate situation, appealing for privacy for Ampadu during what they describe as a challenging period for him personally: "Ethan is aware of and sensitive to the tragic loss within the Loftus and Speight families. The club asks for Ethan's privacy to be respected in what is a difficult time for him personally."

Moreover, the statement commended Ampadu on his exemplary leadership both on and off the field throughout the season and reiterated his dedication to the club's legacy and the wider community of Leeds. It concluded by affirming the club's unwavering support for Ethan and its resolve to remain silent on the matter henceforth: "Our captain has been a leader on and off the pitch this season, demonstrating his commitment to the club, its history, and the broader Leeds community. Ethan has the full support of everybody at Leeds. The club will be making no further comment."

However, his former partner has now responded to Leeds, asserting that Ampadu was fully cognisant of the photograph. She also extended her sympathies to the families of the deceased fans.

Saara Sa posted on Instagram: "My condolences are with the families of the two people who passed away in Istanbul. I am Turkish and our son is part Turkish. Galatasaray is my family's supporting home team and has been for years.

"We are the parents of our child and Ethan was aware of the photo. I would appreciate if Leeds United Football Club would not portray a false narrative by making a statement stating lies."

Ampadu, aged 24, has found his footing at Elland Road after undertaking four separate loan stints away from Chelsea, where he played 12 times after being signed from Exeter City at the tender age of 16.

Following temporary periods at RB Leipzig, Sheffield United, Venezia and Spezia, he made a permanent move to Leeds in 2023. He led Daniel Farke's side as captain to Championship title victory this season.

Reflecting on their promotion, Ampadu stated: "The staff and the players who were at Wembley felt on the bottom of the world that day because we didn't achieve what we set out to, so to be put that right, albeit a year too late, is a sweet moment.

"We're a team full of leaders, a team full of characters. We've got a strong mentality. There's been upsets and some games we haven't been happy with but I think it's testament to the lads and the staff to keep going every day no matter the results.

"This club's really special. Everybody who puts on the shirt knows it's a massive honour to play for this club and to represent the city and the fans so to celebrate in front of them and with them made it really special."