Steven Gerrard has been installed as the bookies' favourite to be next Leeds manager after the club announced the departure of Sam Allardyce.
The Ibrox boss has been out of work since he was sacked by Aston Villa back in October last year, but has spoken publically about his hopes of getting back into management.
Allardyce, 68, could not save Leeds from relegation after being appointed in a last-ditch bid to keep them in the Premier League with four games of the season remaining and today the club confirmed his departure.
The Englishman said after Leeds’ last game of the season that he would talk with the club about whether to stay in the role, but has now confirmed he was unable to commit to a “long-term project” as they bid to bounce back to the top flight.
The former England boss said: “It has been an honour to manage Leeds United, a great club with an incredible fan base, who deserve to be in the Premier League.
“I have really enjoyed working with the staff and players at the club and I would like to thank Angus Kinnear for the opportunity.
“I’d also like to highlight the outstanding work of (assistants) Karl Robinson and Robbie Keane who have worked tirelessly over the past few weeks.
“At this stage in my career I am not sure taking on this challenge, which is potentially a long-term project, is something I could commit to, but I wish the club every success for the future and hope the club returns to the Premier League, where they belong.”
Gerrard is the 5/2 favourite to be the next Leeds manager, while former Leeds assistant manager Carlos Corberan trails at 7/2, with Brendan Rodgers (5/1), Regis Le Bris (15/2) and Lee Bowyer (10/1) other contenders.
Leeds are second-favourites at 7/1 to win the Championship next season.
Betfair spokesperson Sam Rosbottom said: “Steven Gerrard is the early 5/2 favourite to be the next Leeds manager after Sam Allardyce left the club on Friday. Carlos Corberan, who worked under Marcelo Bielsa at Elland Road, is 7/2 to return, with Brendan Rodgers 5/1 and Lorient boss Regis Le Bris 15/2.
"Leeds will be looking to make an immediate return to the Premier League and are 7/1 second-favourites to win the Championship next season.”
Betfair: Leeds manager for first game of 2023/24 season
Steven Gerrard: 5/2
Carlos Corberan: 7/2
Brendan Rodgers: 5/1
Regis Le Bris: 15/2
Lee Bowyer: 10/1
Patrick Vieira: 12/1
Graham Potter: 16/1
Scott Parker, Jon Dahl Tomasson: 20/1
Nuno Espirito Santo, Marcelo Bielsa, Ralph Hasenhuttl, Rafa Benitez: 25/1
