Leeds United: Thompson saga latest chapter in season of uncertainty

Lee Sobot

STEVE Thompson’s swift exit from Leeds United is the latest chapter in a season of uncertainty at Elland Road - that was just showing signs of much-needed stability.

Assistant boss Thompson leaves after 105 days in his post as part of a campaign that has also seen managers David Hockaday and Darko Milanic quickly head in and out of Elland Road.

Upon succeeding McDermott in the summer, Hockaday infamously lasted just 70 days and six games in his position before being sacked on August 28, 2014 along with assistant Junior Lewis.

Neil Redfearn was put in temporary charge but only lasted 26 days despite taking three victories and a draw from his four games in charge with president Massimo Cellino instead opting to bring in another unknown quantity in Darko Milanic as head coach.

Milanic began his tenure on September 23 - signing on a two-year-deal - but his ill-fated reign began with a 2-0 loss at Brentford and the Slovenian would last just 32 days after failing to win any of his six games in charge.

Milanic was dismissed on October 25 along with his assistant Novica Nikčević with the managerial reins again handed back to Redfearn who was confirmed new head coach on November 1.

Redfearn then hired Huddersfield Town’s assistant manager Thompson as his new number two on Thursday, December 18 and the duo worked to transform United’s form - taking the club away from the relegation zone and into the Championship’s top half.

United were finally building some stability but Thompson’s shock departure comes after just 105 days or 15 weeks in the post and brings a whole new worry of uncertainty back to Elland Road.

Since being officially appointed as head coach on November 1, this Thursday was Redfearn’s 153rd day in the role.