Barnsley have joined Leeds in their legal fight against the Football League over the 15-point deduction imposed on the West Yorkshire club.

United were given the points deduction by the Football League (FL) board as punishment for going into administration.

Leeds chairman Ken Bates last month launched a High Court action against the league, but Barnsley's decision to join the legal battle is very surprising.

The development was revealed in a letter from FL chairman Lord Brian Mawhinney to the clubs.

Mawhinney says in the letter, a copy of which has been seen by PA Sport: "Barnsley Football Club has joined Leeds in bringing these proceedings. This surprised us, as the first indication we received of any concern on the part of Barnsley in this matter was when we received the claim form."

Leeds are arguing the FL and board do not have the power to impose a 15-point deduction and/or that a deduction is unfair and unreasonable.

Mawhinney added the FL have instructed their lawyers to "defend the 15-point deduction robustly on behalf of the League and the clubs".

Leeds had signed an agreement in August not to take legal proceedings against the FL but they are also arguing in court that this should be declared void and is unenforceable.

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