Leeds United sack manager McAllister

Leeds United announced

on Sunday that they have sacked manager Gary McAllister.

The decision follows a run of five consecutive losses, including

the shock FA Cup defeat to Histon.
Saturday's League One slump at Milton Keynes Dons saw

promotion hopefuls Leeds slip to ninth in the table, the PA said.

A statement on the club's official website read: "The board took

the decision following the recent poor run of results that has seen

the club slip to ninth in League One, 15 points behind the leaders

and five points outside the play-offs.
"The decision was made to ensure that the new manager, when

appointed, has the maximum number of games possible to move the

club up the table and also before the transfer window opens in

January to allow him to identify any new players he thinks can

strengthen the current squad.
"The club would like to place on record its thanks for the loyal

service given to Leeds United by Gary since joining the club as

manager in January 2008 and wish him every success in the future."

McAllister took over at Elland Road in January and led the club

to the League One play-off final, but lost to Doncaster Rovers at

Wembley.