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O'Leary sacked by Leeds United

David O'Leary confirmed he did not leave Leeds United AFC "by mutual consent" but was sacked.

David O'Leary confirmed today that he had been sacked as manager of Leeds United AFC. Earlier, Leeds chairman Peter Ridsdale said O'Leary's departure from Elland Road had been "by mutual consent".

Imminent appointment?
A dejected O'Leary said: "I went in [to the club] this morning thinking I've got my holiday during which to organise things for next season and the chairman told me 'you've got the sack'." The Irishman, who said he had not been given a reason for his dismissal during this morning's meeting, added: "I think I know who has got the job. It's already in place."

'Mutual benefit'
Ridsdale made the surprise announcement of O'Leary's departure in a statement issued through the London stock exchange where the club is listed as Leeds United plc. It read: "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 a successor can be announced in the next few weeks."

Immediate impact
The former Arsenal FC and Republic of Ireland defender O'Leary became Leeds's manager in October 1998 following the departure of George Graham. He made an immediate impact, helping the side to qualify for the UEFA Cup in 1999/00 where they reached the semi-finals before losing to Galatasaray SK.

Young squad
A third-place finish in the Premiership the same season saw Leeds qualify for the 2000/01 UEFA Champions League. Despite a tough draw and a young squad, O'Leary marshalled the side to the last four, where they were beaten by Valencia CF. 

Failed to build
Leeds failed to build on that success the following season despite significant investment in new players, failing to mount a title challenge or gain one of four Champions League places on offer to English clubs.

 

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