Leeds appoint Sam Allardyce ahead of Premier League fixture vs Man City

Leeds United have sacked manager Javi Gracia ahead of their Premier League clash with Manchester City at the Etihad Stadium on Saturday afternoon, with Sam Allardyce taking charge of the club for their remaining four games of the season.

The Yorkshire club currently sit 17th in the top-flight table, only above the relegation zone on goal difference. Leeds have just four games left this season, with their Premier League place in real danger. Gracia was appointed as Jesse Marsch's successor in February, but he has won only three of his 11 league matches in charge.

Leeds, who have lost four of their past five matches, have now appointed Allardyce. The former West Ham and Everton manager has been out of work since stepping down as West Brom manager at the end of the 2020/21 season.

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Pep Guardiola's side welcome the Whites to the Etihad on Saturday afternoon, hoping to take another step towards retaining their top-flight crown this term. The Blues have won their last eight matches in the league, including a 4-1 victory over Arsenal last week. City secured a 3-1 win over Leeds in the reverse fixture at Elland Road in December.

In addition to Gracia leaving Elland Road, the Whites parted company with director of football Victor Orta on Tuesday. He joined Leeds in 2017 and helped the club achieve promotion back to the Premier League in 2020.

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