LEE Bowyer feels hard done by the 'punishment' handed out by Leeds United.

You have to agree that the player is a 'disgrace' (David O'Leary's words) and isn't the most savoury character in the world.

I think Bowyer should swallow his punishment and get on with playing football.

But even though the judge in the court case was less than glowing about Bowyer, he was cleared of all charges.

The club's actions don't smack of backing an innocent man.

Bowyer has been punished for breaching the club's code of conduct but if that's the case then why wasn't he punished at the time of the incident?

There was never any doubt over whether he was out boozing on the night of the attack?

The case has been a running sore for all at Elland Road and while it has not been Leeds United on trial, it has certainly seemed that way.

The club are desperate to repair their battered public image but I am not convinced another media mud-slinging campaign is the way to do it.

If Lee Bowyer wants to get on with his life and put the trial behind him, he should reluctantly accept his punishment.

David O'Leary's forthcoming book should certainly make interesting reading.

However, people can talk about letting the two Leeds players start afresh.

How easy will that be for Sarfraz Najeib I wonder?