Soccer: Champions will leave O’Leary alone Ridsdale

Leeds chairman Peter Ridsdale does not expect David O’Leary to be on Manchester United’s hit-list when the champions come to replace Sir Alex Ferguson.

O’Leary has become one of the most respected young managers in Europe by guiding Leeds into the semi-finals of the Champions League, and Manchester United will need a new manager when Ferguson retires at the end of next season.

However, Ridsdale said: ‘‘I have heard all the whispers about shortlists with David’s name on them, but I really don’t even expect Manchester United to make any sort of approach to Leeds at any time.

‘‘They know he is under contract. They know he has signed a six-year deal with us to end all that kind of speculation and I would expect Manchester United, of all clubs, to honour that.

‘‘David himself has spoken about the need for managers to keep their part of the bargain if they sign long-term deals.

‘‘If, despite all that, Manchester United do choose to contact me, it will be a very short conversation.’’