Town manager George Burley is already amongst a number of bosses being linked with the now vacant Leeds United job. David O'Leary was today sacked by the Elland Road club, apparently due to disagreements over the future of Rio Ferdinand.

Irish manager Mick McCarthy and South Korean boss Guus Hiddink are also being linked along with Burley, although numerous others are likely to get a mention before the position is filled.

Leeds themselves are claiming the decision was mutual, although later reports are disputing this version of events: "Leeds United PLC announces that David O'Leary, manager of Leeds United Football Club has left the company by mutual consent.

"After four successful years the pressures of some of the off-field incidents have resulted in both the company and Mr O'Leary agreeing that it would be of mutual benefit for a change of manager.

"It is hoped that an announcement regarding a successor can be announced in the next few weeks.

Burley looks to be very much an outsider for the job with most feeling a higher profile manager is likely to get the nod. Irish boss McCarthy is appears to be the early favourite due to his Yorkshire background and his success at the World Cup.

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