As we all know, Freddy's geography is not his strong point.
Having appointed "Geordie" Graeme Souness as Newcastle boss, it was pointed out to the chairman that Edinburgh (where Souness was born) was NOT in Northumberland.
And to suggest Leeds is in the "north-east" is again baffling. So don't be surprised if he makes a move for Southampton ... because he probably thinks they are "just south of Gateshead" too.
The official line from Leeds United:
Freddy Shepherd will not be given the option of buying Leeds United after the club insisted a takeover was out of the question.
Leeds Don't Want Shepherd!
Shepherd, the former Newcastle United chairman, is keen to invest in Leeds after leaving his post at St James' Park earlier this year, but United will not entertain any offers for a controlling stake at Elland Road.
Leeds moved to clarify their position today amid growing expectation that Shepherd will step forward with an investment proposal early next year.
Bates intends to retain at least 51 per cent of the club's shares, providing him with a controlling interest, but he has been seeking serious investment ever since his arrival at Elland Road, and the recent discussions between the 75-year-old and Shepherd suggest a deal is increasingly likely.
Shepherd would look to acquire at least a 25 per cent stake to make his investment worthwhile, but would not be allowed to take his holding beyond the 49 per cent.
United reiterated today that Bates has no intention of cutting his ties at Elland Road in the foreseeable future.
The former Newcastle chief could yet be drawn to another English club, and he has been linked with Sheffield Wednesday this week. Shepherd is also understood to have considered a bid for Ipswich Town.