O'Leary: Spin doctor at work

David O'Leary claims Leeds have "a great spin doctor at the club" as the furore over his departure threatens to boil over.

The Irishman has been shown the door by chairman Peter Ridsdale after almost four years in charge at Elland Road.

The club claimed the decision was taken for footballing reasons, but O'Leary admits he fears the story could be spun to protect their reputation.

He told Sky Sports News: "As long as the club stick to the reasons I'll keep my silence and go peacefully - but if I see some spin to suit the image of the club, then I will have something to say.

"They have a great spin doctor at the club.

"I've heard that (the sacking) could have had something to do with the players and that amazes me.

"I've spent £60m (€92m) and I don't think that was squandered. What concerns me is the spin put on it.

"I got the sack for reasons I can accept but where I will come out in anger is if spin is put on it that is wrong.

"There is one person at the club who is particularly good at spinning."

O'Leary, who is taking a holiday, admits that he leaves the club with a heavy heart.

He added: "I think over four years I have done my best. I've tried not to let the fans down.

"Whoever gets the job good luck to them because they'll be joining a great club. It hasn't done me any harm.

"I'd like to thank so many people at Leeds. It has been tough, but it's a great place to live.

"I've loved being here and the fans have been great. I tried to do my best.

"I'll remain friends with a lot of people at Leeds - if they stick to why I got the sack."

O'Leary feels he still has plenty to offer, and hopes to return to management elsewhere.

He said: "I'll move on. I've been very fortunate over the years.

"Finance-wise I've got enough to get by but I'm not in it for that.

"I was very fortunate to play for Arsenal but then I wanted to see the management side.

"I hope somebody takes pity on me somewhere and I get the chance to do my best for them and their fans."