O'Leary leaves Leeds

O'Leary has walked away from Leeds, after almost four years at the helm, but after originally stating that the decision was made by mutual consent the club altered their statement to remove this reference.

The club statement 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."

The news is likely to bring widespread speculation that the Irish tactician has stepped down in protest at the mooted sale of Rio Ferdinand to Manchester United.

It has already been a torrid few months for O'Leary, who suffered a disappointing domestic season that saw the club miss out on a Champions League berth.

But it is the court case of Lee Bowyer and Jonathan Woodgate that most dominated Leeds' agenda, and although the former was found innocent of all charges, the midfielder is currently on the transfer list after failing to agree a new contract.

After spending close to £100 million on assembling a squad that looked likely to become a major force in English football, O'Leary was rocked by the news that he may have to sell key players.

After admitting he could do little to keep Ferdinand at Leeds should the England World Cup hero decide to leave, O'Leary's decision nevertheless comes as a major shock.

"Nothing should shock you in football," said O'Leary. "I've been sacked, there's not a lot more that I can say."

The clearly unhappy coach then hinted that he believes that Leeds already have a successor in mind.

Mick McCarthy, along with Martin O'Neill, Alan Curbishley. George Burley and Gordon Strachan have all been mooted by the press as potential replacements.

"I think I know who has got the job. It's already in place," he continued.

"I love football and I love the people here. They (the fans) were fantastic and I tried to do my best for them.

"I'm disappointed, but that's football. I've tried to do the best I can to run the club and I've had great support.

"I wish them all the best. It's a great club and a great place to live."

Ferdinand himself admitted to Sky Sports that he was devastated by the news.

"It is a massive shock and is disappointing," said the defender.

"He has been brilliant for me."

Mick McCarthy's agent has already said that he has had no approach from Leeds.