LEEDS United have sacked their manager Javi Gracia and replaced him with coaching veteran Sam Allardyce.
The 53-year-old Spaniard was only appointed in February as replacement for Jesse Marsch but the club have struggled under him, staying above the relegation places on goal difference.
“Leeds United can confirm Javi Gracia will leave the club after 12 games in charge,” the club announced today on their official website.
“Zigor Aranalde, Mikel Antia and Juan Solla, who joined alongside Gracia, will also leave the club.
“We thank Javi and his team for their efforts under difficult circumstances.
“The remaining four games of the season will be overseen by experienced head coach Sam Allardyce.”
The 68-year-old Allardyce has managed over 500 Premier League games in a career spanning 29 years, and worked with several clubs including Bolton Wanderers, Blackburn Rovers, West Ham, Crystal Palace and Everton.
Leeds said Allardyce “brings a wealth of knowledge in fighting for survival, having guided a number of his previous clubs to safety. Over the past decade he has successfully helped Sunderland, Crystal Palace and Everton avoid relegation from the Premier League during short-term stints.”
Allardyce will be assisted by former MK Dons, Charlton Athletic and Oxford United manager Karl Robinson, and his first game in charge is on Saturday at Premier League champions Manchester City.
