Sam Allardyce leaves Leeds United by mutual consent following relegation from Premier League | OneFootball

‘Big Sam’ became Leeds’ third non-interim manager of the season upon his appointment in May, following on from Jesse Marsch and Javi Gracia.

Despite being brought in as a last-ditch attempt to save the West Yorkshire side, Allardyce was unable to repeat his famed ‘great escape’ act, making it the second consecutive time he has been unable to do so in football management after taking West Brom down in the 2020/21 season.

While the task facing the 68-year-old was without doubt his toughest yet, the club hierarchy would undoubtedly have expected slightly more from Allardyce: whose time at Elland Road drew to a close with a poor 4-1 home defeat against Tottenham.

During his time in charge, the former England manager gained 1 point from a potential 12, which came in a battling – and at the time encouraging – 2-2 draw against Newcastle at Elland Road.

Speaking on his short stint at LS11, Allardyce said:

“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. 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.

“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.”

Leeds United CEO Angus Kinnear also added:

“We thank Sam for being brave enough to step in and do all he could to save us. 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.”

The club’s official statement also claimed a new managerial appointment will “be made in the coming weeks”.