THE Sheikh striving to rescue hard-up Leeds from ruin has told his critics: "I am not a vulture."

Reports have suggested that lifelong Leeds fan Sheikh Adbul bin Mubarak Al-Khalifa and his consortium are waiting for the club to go into administration before making their move.

That would boost their chances of picking up a bargain, but the Bahrain-based Sheikh said last night: "It is very important that the fans know I have the club at heart.

"We have a consortium ready if things go to plan and the main target is to avoid administration.

"Reports that I am waiting for Leeds to go into administration are wrong. I am not a vulture."

Leeds are understood to have staved off administration for the time being by reaching agreement with bond holders to restructure a £60million debt.

Meanwhile, Leeds United reserves mde it six defeats out of seven last night when they were beaten 3-1 away from home by Birmingham City.

Leeds, who last won at Bolton on October 29, fielded a largely inexperienced side, with Stephen McPhail the only player over 20.

Leeds were three goals adrift before Simon Johnson scored from the penalty spot after being brought down.

Updated: 11:09 Thursday, December 04, 2003