In a statement to the Stock Exchange, Ridsdale had earlier resigned from several high-profile roles.

He explained that he wanted to devote more of his time to the running of the Elland Road club.

The move seems to have served to appease shareholders at the meeting at which Ridsdale was expected to come under heavy criticism.

The Leeds supremo has left his role on the board of the Football Association as well as from the FA Cup and International Committees of the FA and the FA Council.

Ridsdale also added that Leeds, who are �80m in debt, will be looking to "strengthen the board" in the New Year.

The backing to continue as a director on the board - meaning he can carry on as chairman - will come as a major boost.

However, the club's recent poor performance on and off the field means that Ridsdale could see a reduction in his authority.

Leeds are to appoint a chief executive to take over day-to-day control.

Celtic's Ian McLeod and Newcastle's former chief executive Freddie Fletcher are among the names that have been mentioned.

But Ridsdale is likely to face criticism for sanctioning former manager David O'Leary's �100m outlay on players.

O'Leary led the club to the semi-finals of the Champions League but failed to deliver any silverware to Elland Road.

The club's poor form this season under new manager Terry Venables has not helped Leeds' predicament.

"The current performance of the team, despite an acute injury crisis, is clearly not acceptable given both our expectations, and the investment that we have made," said Ridsdale.

"Everyone involved is aware of what we need to do and you can be assured that we will do everything possible to correct this position.