THE brother of a murdered Leeds United fan has appeared before North-East magistrates charged with threatening behaviour, a public order offence that allegedly took place prior to the recent England game against Turkey.

Andrew Stuart Loftus, 32, of Leeds, was among 106 people arrested in Sunderland during the day leading up to the Euro 2004 qualifier, on April 2. He pleaded not guilty and was bailed by Sunderland magistrates for trial in October.

His brother Christopher, 37, died from stab wounds three years ago after he was attacked by locals on the eve of United's Uefa Cup tie against Galatasaray in Istanbul.