Venables should go sooner rather than later

AS Terry Venables sifts through the wreckage of Leeds’ latest abject performance it is time he also took stock of his own situation and, for the good of all concerned at Elland Road, stated his intentions.

Just six days ago Venables refused to be drawn on his future, categorically refusing “to talk about what is going to happen in a couple of months”.

Yet in the cold light of Sunday’s s FA Cup exit at the hands of First Division Sheffield United, Venables should now indicate whether he would like to remain in charge beyond the summer and see out a two-year deal, or make the honourable gesture and call it a day.

It is a situation which could well be taken out of his hands because if the Leeds board can sack David O’Leary after the club finished fifth last season, then what hope does Venables have after three ignominious cup exits and with United currently languishing in 15th in the Premiership.

Prior to defeat to the Blades for the second time this season, Venables still had the sympathy of the supporters given the way he has been misled by the plc board and chairman Peter Ridsdale .

They may think differently now, after a man highly regarded for his motivational skills was found wanting when the club’s entire season was on the line.

For whatever reason, the Leeds players were unable to cope with a swirling wind, a bumpy pitch, and a Sheffield United team whose will to win was far greater.

With nine weeks and nine Premiership matches remaining, Leeds now have nothing to play for other than a handful of points they potentially require to avoid further humiliation and an end-of-season relegation dogfight.

But if Venables’ squad cannot summon up the necessary fighting spirit when a rare item of silverware is up for grabs and with it the prospect of European football and much-needed finances, then are they capable of battling in the basement trenches?

If Venables is planning to depart in the summer it would perhaps be best if he left now because, if the club has to rebuild without him, they should do so at the earliest opportunity.