Former Premier League striker Chris Sutton has claimed Leeds United's board could only have made the decision to sack Jesse Marsch if they had a replacement lined up and ready to go.
The American was shown the door on Monday afternoon following a run of seven matches without a win that has left the Whites out of the relegation zone on goal difference alone.
But despite an overall improvement in their play since the return from the winter break, Marsch was unable to get the results necessary to avoid the threat of the drop and has been axed - in similar fashion to four other managers before him.
READ MORE: Jesse Marsch sacked LIVE - Leeds United search for new head coach begins with Andoni Iraola linked
"I think the performances have actually been there, I get that about the results, but five of the bottom six have now sacked managers and Leeds are looking at what’s happened with Lopetegui at Wolves and seen how they’ve improved," Sutton said on BBC Radio 5 Live's Monday Night Club.
"I wouldn’t have thought they’d have gone off Sean Dyche’s Everton so early albeit a marked improvement from them.
"They do seem to have panicked though, and it looks like a clear-out of the whole staff so I would be shocked if they didn’t know who was coming in - that must be already done I would’ve thought.
"I think it begs the question, why haven’t the owners acted earlier to give the new manager the January transfer window to bring new players in?"
Leeds have confirmed that coaches Michael Skubala, Paco Gallardo and Chris Armas will take charge for Wednesday night's trip to Old Trafford to face Manchester United.
READ NEXT:
Leeds United's next move could be make or break with Andrea Radrizzani's legacy on the line
Leeds United confirm coaching set-up for Man United clash and announce press conference
West Brom supporters beg board to give Carlos Corberan 'lifetime contract' amid Leeds United links
Leeds United new manager runners and riders as Corberan, Pochettino, Gallardo, Knutsen cited
Leeds United's next manager decision as Argentinian formula clashes with Spanish up-and-comer
