O'Leary quits Leeds
Your support helps us to tell the story
From reproductive rights to climate change to Big Tech, The Independent is on the ground when the story is developing. Whether it's investigating the financials of Elon Musk's pro-Trump PAC or producing our latest documentary, 'The A Word', which shines a light on the American women fighting for reproductive rights, we know how important it is to parse out the facts from the messaging.
At such a critical moment in US history, we need reporters on the ground. Your donation allows us to keep sending journalists to speak to both sides of the story.
The Independent is trusted by Americans across the entire political spectrum. And unlike many other quality news outlets, we choose not to lock Americans out of our reporting and analysis with paywalls. We believe quality journalism should be available to everyone, paid for by those who can afford it.
Your support makes all the difference.Leeds United and David O'Leary today parted company amid mounting speculation that his firm stance over Rio Ferdinand's future had led to his departure.
O'Leary insisted that the England defender should not be sold to balance the books at Leeds after chairman Peter Ridsdale revealed that the club must make a £15million profit on any summer deals.
Speculation has been rife that Ferdinand is being lined up for a £35million-plus move to Manchester United.
O'Leary felt strongly that selling Ferdinand to Leeds' arch rivals would hand the title to Sir Alex Ferguson's men and was desperate to keep Ferdinand.
Leeds published a statement today Ridsdale's behalf, which read: "Leeds United PLC today announces that David O'Leary, manager of Leeds United Football Club has left the company by mutual consent.
"After four successful years the pressures of some of the off-field incidents have resulted in both the company and Mr O'Leary agreeing that it would be of mutual benefit for a change of manager.
"It is hoped that an announcement regarding a successor can be announced in the next few weeks.
"Leeds United would like to place on record its thanks for David's enormous contribution over the last four years."
O'Leary joined Leeds four years ago and spent millions in search of success.
He took the club forward after succeeding George Graham and, despite the disappointment of last season, Leeds fans were still firmly behind him.
The fans are bound to agree with O'Leary's stance on Ferdinand's future. They were dismayed when Howard Wilkinson sold Eric Cantona to Manchester United in the summer of 1991, a move which proved the catalyst for some long awaited success at Old Trafford.
If Ferdinand follows the same path as Cantona it is bound to spark outrage among the fans.
Join our commenting forum
Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies
Comments