Blackwell to take over at Leeds for final game

Eddie Gray's assistant, Kevin Blackwell, will take charge of the team for Leeds' final match of the season against Chelsea at Stamford Bridge on Saturday after the news today that Gray is to step down.

Chairman Gerald Krasner said: “We had a very productive meeting with Eddie today and the decision was amicable.

“I’d like to take this opportunity to thank Eddie for his contribution to Leeds United this season – probably one of the hardest on record.

“But we are delighted Eddie has agreed to stay with us in a consultancy capacity so we can still benefit from his vast experience in the game.”

Krasner, though, has confirmed the club will not be rushed into an appointment, with the likes of Crystal Palace manager Iain Dowie, Wigan’s Paul Jewell and Stoke’s Tony Pulis all recently linked with the post.