Smith was shown the red card for the sixth time in his career during yesterday's explosive and controversial FA Cup third-round defeat to Second Division Cardiff at Ninian Park.

With the tie delicately balanced at 1-1, the turning point of the match arrived just before half-time when Smith attempted to fend off the unwanted attentions of Legg as the left-back had a firm hold of his shirt.

Smith, in trying to free himself and run on, caught Legg in the face with his forearm - the defender then holding his mouth as he fell to the ground.

Smith's reputation - not for the first time - seemed to precede him as referee Andy D'Urso did not hesitate in issuing the red card, his fifth for Leeds to add to the one received at England Under-21 level.

Manager David O'Leary felt Smith had been "disgracefully done by", before accusing referees in general of having "an agenda" against the 21-year-old.

Legg said: "At the end of the day I've caused the foul because I've held him.

"I was aware of his pace and I didn't want him to turn me and run me. I was tight to him and holding him, and to be fair to him he was just trying to shrug me off.

"I don't think there was any malice or intent involved. It's just he was trying to get rid of me, and unfortunately he's caught me and cut my mouth.