LEEDS (AP):

Leeds owner Massimo Cellino has resigned as the second-tier club's president after being disqualified by the Football League, following a tax-evasion conviction. He will return in April once the ban expires.

Board member Andrew Umbers will serve as chairman in Cellino's absence.

"It is with great sadness and frustration that I have to take this step," said Cellino. He added that he will return in April in good health and good spirits. After initially being blocked from taking over the 1992 English champions because of the conviction in Italy, Cellino was successful with an appeal in April.

However, after obtaining the Italian court's judgment, the Football League board decided again that Cellino breached the terms of its test covering the suitability of owners and directors. Cellino's appeal was rejected this week.

South Africa's Dean Furman celebrates after a goal during their African Cup of Nations Group C soccer match against Senegal in Mongomo, Equatorial Guinea, on Thursday, January 22.

Next African Cup host to be named in April