Leeds boss Marcelo Bielsa has refused to be drawn into a row with Millwall counterpart Neil Harris following Saturday’s 1-1 draw at The Den.
Harris described the Leeds bench’s celebrations after Jack Harrison’s late equaliser as “a disgrace” and “completely over the top”.
Moments before Harrison’s 89th-minute equaliser, which extended Leeds’ unbeaten start in the Sky Bet Championship, Bielsa had been involved in a heated exchange with Millwall’s coaching staff.
“I participate in the dispute only when I think when you exchange arguments with the opponent, this will increase the understanding of the public,” Bielsa said when asked about Harris’s comments.
“I have an idea what we should make public and not make public. I also understand the meaning of comparing opinions publicly.
“I also assume the fact that I’m a foreigner and I’m welcomed and received by the football of a country that is not mine. So these points are enough for me to avoid any response.”
Bielsa and his backroom team took exception to how long it took the home dugout to throw the ball back into play as Millwall protected their slender lead in the closing stages.
Leeds midfielder Samuel Saiz then ran to celebrate Harrison’s goal with the visitors’ coaching staff in front of Millwall’s bench.
Harris initially played down the incident after the match, claiming there was “no problem whatsoever”, but was later scathing in his criticism of Bielsa and his staff.
“I think Marcelo has already apologised in the press for his bench,” Harris told the South London Press. “And I’ve already stated that my staff could’ve given the ball back slightly quicker, make it more accessible to get the ball.
“But their reaction to the goal is completely over the top and a disgrace in English football.”