Massimo Cellino has accused the Football League of "hurting" Leeds United by blocking his proposed takeover at the club.

The 57-year-old has been disqualified from becoming an owner or director at the Championship side because of a recent tax evasion conviction in Sardinia.

He told Sky Sports News: "The message I have to the Football League is that they should look after the clubs they represent in the proper way.

"I don't think they are acting in the interests of the clubs. They are hurting Leeds, not Massimo Cellino, very deeply.

"The big problem is what damage is being done to Leeds as they are losing a lot of games for a lot of reasons. They need another four or six points to stay in the Championship. The supporters are really hurt and not being respected, that is the main problem. I hope everything is going to be alright and they let me run the club the way I know."

Cellino has appealed against the decision to block his takeover.