Struggling Leeds appoint Allardyce after axing Gracia

LONDON: Leeds have sacked manager Javi Gracia and appointed Sam Allardyce for the final four games of the season as they scramble to avoid relegation from the Premier League.

The Spaniard leaves Elland Road after just 10 weeks and 12 games in charge, with the club outside the drop zone only on goal difference.

Allardyce, 68, is Leeds' third permanent manager of a turbulent season - Gracia replaced Jesse Marsch in February.

"We thank Javi and his team for their efforts under difficult circumstances," the club said in a statement.

"The remaining four games of the season will be overseen by experienced head coach Sam Allardyce."

Director of football Victor Orta left Elland Road by mutual consent on Tuesday (May 2).

Former Bolton, Newcastle, West Ham and England boss Allardyce has been out of work since the end of the 2020/21 season after failing to save West Brom from top-flight relegation.

It was the first time Allardyce had been relegated from the Premier League in his 30-year managerial career and he left the Hawthorns six months into an 18-month contract.

Despite his impressive record as a club manager, he lasted only 67 days and one match as England boss before being forced out after a newspaper sting in 2016.

Allardyce said he was "shocked" to get the opportunity to try to save Leeds but that it took him "two seconds" to say yes.

"I have seen a lot of trouble before and - I could have done with a little bit more time, but four games - hopefully we can make a difference and keep this fabulous club in the Premier League," he told TalkSPORT.

Allardyce is reported to have agreed a basic salary of £500,000 (US$625,000) for his four games in charge, with a £2.5 million bonus if he can keep Leeds up.

Gracia collected 10 points from his