Leeds won't rush new appointment - Birch

Leeds will take their time to appoint a new manager after Peter Reid's departure.

Chief executive Trevor Birch insists the Elland Road club will not be rushed into a decision after a disastrous period in the club's history since the heights of the David O'Leary era.

The field for the vacant post is starting to take shape with Paul Hart, Neil Warnock and caretaker boss Eddie Gray among the most popular contenders.

But Birch told the club's website: "One thing we will not do is set a timescale.

"The important thing for Leeds is to appoint the right person however long that takes.

"It will take time because it is a crucial appointment at a crucial time for this club.

"There won't be any shortage of candidates because Leeds is still one of those big clubs and we need to get back to our rightful position."

Gray, who was asked on Monday to take over at the helm, was due to put his players, who were left demoralised after Saturday's 6-1 Premiership defeat at Portsmouth, through their paces at Cambridge in manager John Taylor's testimonial.

And one man who could get a run-out after his Reid-imposed exile is Mark Viduka.

The 28-year-old was dumped by Reid after their latest spat in a long-running row, but Gray is confident that the damage can be repaired.

"I have no problems with Mark Viduka and I don't think he will have any problems with me," he said.

"He is definitely an important member of the first-team squad, and I will handle him the best way I can.

"He is a major player in our squad, a great goalscorer and a smashing player.

"His problems in the last few weeks are well documented but I will have a chat to Mark and I am sure we will be okay."