Leeds United vs Derby County: Rams confirm 'spy' rumbled at training ground is Leeds employee

'It has since been confirmed to Derby County that the individual concerned is an employee of the footballing staff at Leeds United', said a statement

A Leeds United employee has been caught 'spying' on a Derby training session (Getty)

Derby County confirmed that police have been called in after a 'spy' working for Leeds United was rumbled observing a training session before the Rams' Championship clash with the Yorkshire club.

An individual using binoculars was reportedly spotted trying to watch a training session of Frank Lampard's side from the perimeter fence when the authorities were called and Derby have since been able to confirm that the man observing training was on the staff at Leeds.

"Derby County Football Club can confirm that officers from the Derbyshire Constabulary were called to the Derby County Training Centre at around 11:20am on Thursday 10th January 2019 following reports of a man acting suspiciously outside the premises," a statement said.

"It has since been confirmed to Derby County that the individual concerned is an employee of the footballing staff at Leeds United Football Club.

"The club is now in discussion with Leeds United club officials in relation to this incident.

Frank Lampard's training session was paused after the intruder was discovered (Getty Images)

"At this time no further comment will be made."

No arrests were made but Derby are understood to have made a complaint to the relevant footballing authorities.

Derbyshire Police's Response Unit tweeted about the incident: “Officers have just attended the Training Ground for @dcfcofficial After a suspicious male was seen at the perimeter fence.

“Excellent searching conducted & male was located. All checks above board! Keeping the team safe to bring home a win against #LUFC on 11th! #SpyingIsCheating.”

Leeds, who are first in the Championship, are looking to hold off the chasing pack that includes sixth-placed Derby.

More follows…