Leeds United legend Gary McAllister is facing the threat of financial ruin after being hit with a bankruptcy petition by HM Revenue and Customs. The Scot, a key figure in the club's First Division title-winning side, is understood to have been among former footballers who invested in film partnerships later ruled to be tax avoidance schemes.
His representatives say he believed his tax adviser was handling the matter and that he is now seeking to bring the dispute to a swift conclusion. McAllister has not been accused of deliberately evading tax. The specific amount owed has not been disclosed.
HMRC has spent years pursuing ex-players and celebrities involved in such schemes for unpaid tax. A spokesman said the department takes a supportive approach. "We take a supportive approach to dealing with customers who have tax debts and do everything we can to help those who engage with us to get out of debt, such as offering instalment plans," the spokesman said. "We only petition for bankruptcy as a last resort."
McAllister's illustrious career included caps for Scotland, whom he captained, and a memorable spell at Liverpool where he won the FA Cup, UEFA Cup and League Cup. He retired after a second stint as player-manager at Coventry City.
The news comes as the current Leeds side prepare for their next fixtures. They host Crystal Palace this weekend following a victory over Newcastle United in their last outing. The tax case is a stark reminder of the financial challenges some former professionals face long after their playing days end.
More detail at Daily Mail Sport
