The signings of Leeds United's US contingent have been blamed for their relegation from the Premier League. The Whites saw their time in the top flight come to an end on the final day of the season.
Sam Allardyce was the third manager to take charge during a season that kicked off with American Jesse Marsch in charge. However, former England and Newcastle United manager Allardyce was unable to save them from the drop.
They are now preparing for life back in the Championship under new ownership after the 49ers takeover was confirmed. It is hoped their stay in the second tier will be brief.
Peterborough United owner Darragh MacAnthony has waded in on the relegation, putting the blame at the door of recruitment and, in particular, the signing of three players. Former head coach Marsch brought in three compatriots last summer in the form of Brenden Aaronson, Tyler Adams and Weston McKennie.
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The latter arrived from Italian giants Juventus, while Adams and Aaronson had previously played for Marsch as part of the Red Bull franchise of teams.
MacAnthony believes this decision to focus recruitment on US players was behind the drop back into the Championship, as well as taking aim at former Leeds United director of football Victor Orta during a brutal assessment of the club's fortunes.
Speaking on TalkSport, the Posh owner said: “Yes, they got relegated because they signed half the US Men’s National Team, who weren’t very good, and a director of football who was there prior, who if he was made of chocolate he would eat himself.
"Lots of things have probably happened that Andrea [Radrizzani] would regret."
The American trio that MacAnthony referred to could all leave Elland Road this summer. Aaronson has a relegation clause in his contract, while Adams is said to be attracting interest from a host of clubs.
Loanee McKennie has since returned to Juventus.
