Leeds owner Cellino loses appeal against disqualification

LEEDS, England (AP) - Leeds owner Massimo Cellino has lost his appeal against disqualification by the Football League and must stand down from his job until April.

A Professional Conduct Committee (PCC) rejected the Italian's appeal Monday after deciding that his tax evasion conviction in Italy constituted a "dishonest act."

Cellino was disqualified as owner in December and is prohibited from having anything do with Leeds until April 10.

The PCC rejected Cellino's appeal against the Football League's decision to disqualify him, saying "we therefore conclude that Mr. Cellino has been convicted of an offense involving a 'Dishonest Act'" and "is accordingly subject to a 'Disqualifying Condition.'"

The league will provide any assistance to help Leeds - languishing in 20th place in the second-tier Championship - minimize the effect of Cellino's disqualification.