'It's been an honour' - Sam Allardyce departs Leeds United by mutual consent following Premier League relegation
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Updated 02/06/2023 at 09:25 GMT+1
Leeds United have announced the departure of manager Sam Allardyce by mutual consent following their relegation from the Premier League. Allardyce replaced Javi Gracia for the final four games of the season, but could only pick up one point as the Yorkshire club's three-year spell in the top-flight came to an end. The former England boss said it was an "honour" to lead the side.
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Sam Allardyce’s spell as Leeds United manager is over after his departure by mutual consent was confirmed following the club’s relegation from the Premier League.
The former England boss was drafted in to try and rescue the Yorkshire club from the drop with four matches remaining, but they finished 19th when the season ended on Sunday.
“It has been an honour to manage Leeds United, a great club with an incredible fan base, who deserve to be in the Premier League,” said Allardyce.
“I have really enjoyed working with the staff and players at the club and I would like to thank Angus Kinnear for the opportunity. I’d also like to highlight the outstanding work of Karl Robinson and Robbie Keane who have worked tirelessly over the past few weeks."
Allardyce picked up one point from his four games in charge, a 2-2 draw against Newcastle United.
Leeds still stood an outside chance of survival on the final day, but a 4-1 defeat at home to Tottenham confirmed their demotion.
It ended a three-year spell in the top flight for the Elland Road club, who will be joined by Leicester City and Southampton in dropping down a tier next season.
“At this stage in my career I am not sure taking on this challenge, which is potentially a long-term project, is something I could commit to, but I wish the club every success for the future and hope the club returns to the Premier League, where they belong,” Allardyce added.
Allardyce, 68, had been out of management since 2021 when he was appointed by Leeds to replace Javi Gracia.
At the time of his appointment, Leeds were in the safety of 17th place, but defeats to Manchester City and West Ham either side of the Newcastle draw saw them drop into the danger zone before the final day.
Allardyce is renowned for his skills in defensive organisation, but his Lilywhites side conceded 11 goals in four games.
“We thank Sam for being brave enough to step in and do all he could to save us,” said Leeds CEO Angus Kinnear.
Sadly, it was not to be, but Sam, Karl and Robbie did everything they could to lift the mood at Thorp Arch and Elland Road and for that we are all extremely grateful.”
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