Outcast Leeds midfielder David Batty's threat of legal action against the club has taken a step forward following talks with his lawyers.

Batty sought legal advice after chairman Peter Ridsdale declared at United's annual general meeting on Friday that the former England star was no longer capable of playing at the top level.

Batty has been frozen out at Leeds since the arrival in the summer of manager Terry Venables, who felt the 34-year-old was unable to operate effectively in the Premiership after studying videos of his performances last season.

Ridsdale claimed it was the unanimous opinion of Venables, former manager David O'Leary, the club's medical staff and independent medical advisors that, due to Batty's knee problems, he cannot play in English football's top flight.

Although Batty is currently sidelined for another month with tendinitis, even if he ultimately requires surgery, there is no suggestion the injury is career-threatening, though Ridsdale had hinted at the possibility of retirement.

Batty has no intention of retiring and is known to be upset at the claims made at the AGM by Ridsdale, who received support from Allan Leighton, with the club's deputy plc chairman insisting there was ''no whitewash''.

Prior to the meeting, Batty had suggested that, in light of the club's results and performances, he be given one chance to prove himself to Venables once fully fit.

Batty's agent, Hayden Evans, was left fuming with Leeds' comments and raised a number of points which they are now likely to be seeking clarification about from the club's lawyers.

Evans was eager to know who the medical advisors and independent specialists are, where the medical records are that confirm a persistent knee problem and if an insurance claim has been submitted by Leeds to support their claim of Batty's inability to continue?

He also queried if the club were enforcing retirement, were they intending to settle Batty's contract; if further independent medical opinion disputed their belief, would Batty be selected to play for Leeds, and why they have chosen to ignore his request for a chance to prove his ability.

Evans said yesterday: ''Our lawyers have recommended we don't make any formal statement until communication, via a letter from them to Leeds United, has been issued.

"That will be done by Friday, or Monday at the latest, and we will then await a formal response from Leeds.''

Batty still has 19 months of his £25,000-per-week contract remaining.