Given that Leeds United have been constantly linked with a host of potential new managers over the last few months, one would be forgiven for not realising that they actually have had someone in the job all along. However, Paul Heckingbottom has now been offically sacked as head coach at the club, after taking charge for the last 16 games of the season.
The former Barnsley manager took over from Thomas Christiansen in February but their form in the second happen of the season was pretty deplorable, winning just four matches overall. The Yorkshire Evening Post report that Heckingbottom had been away on holiday for the last two weeks but upon his return today he's been informed that his services are no longer required.
In a statement released on their website, Managing Director Angus Kinnear said,
On behalf of the Board of Directors at Leeds United I would like to thank Paul for the commitment and passion he has demonstrated since he joined the club earlier this year. Paul came to us during a difficult period in the season and has conducted himself in an exemplary manner despite results not going as any of us had hoped.
Our objective is to bring in a Head Coach with more experience who can help us reach the goals we have talked about since we became custodians of the club last summer. We are confident of making a quick appointment and we thank our fans for their continued support.
This news comes less than 24 hours after reports emerged that legendary Argentine manager Marcelo Bielsa was in talks with the club about taking over. Mick McCarthy has also been heavily linked to the role ever since he announced he would be quitting Ipswich Town.
Would Leeds fans rather Marcelo Bielsa, Mick McCarthy or Claudio Ranieri as manager? Sounds like a mad debate but recent record may say otherwise. #LUFC
— Balls.ie (@ballsdotie) June 1, 2018
