Leeds United are sounding out new managers, just two days after Daniel Farke led them back to the Premier League.
The Mail reports the West Yorkshire club’s US-based owners, 49ers Enterprises, have reservations about the German’s ability to lead the club in the top flight.
That view is based around Farke’s previous record with Norwich City. Farke twice led the Canaries into the Premier League but accumulated just 26 points from 49 games across one and a half seasons.
He appears to have mastered the Championship, however, with Leeds securing promotion with a 6-0 thumping of Stoke City at Elland Road on Easter Monday.
It was the third Championship promotion of Farke’s career.
Hard work starts now for Leeds
That was arguably the most straightforward bit for Leeds, whose crowds are the second highest in the second tier, as they now have to bridge the enormous gulf to the Premier League.
They won’t be helped by the Profit and Sustainability rules that will take into account the club’s decreased revenues due to their two-year stint outside the top division.
With Leeds continuing to retain several highly paid players, it could be they have to sell before they can buy even though squad strengthening is a must if they are to compete.
Farke retains the support of the Leeds fanbase after they and Burnley edged ahead of Sheffield United to secure the top two spots in what has been a three-horse race for much of the season.
The 48-year-old is also a popular figure in the dressing room and talk of his departure is likely to disappoint his players.
Speaking after the Stoke game, Farke said: “To deliver such an emphatic performance is really amazing and all the credit goes to the boys for the way they have handled the situation and the spirit they have shown in recent weeks.”
Bielsa to return?
If he is dismissed, there is unlikely to be a shortage of willing candidates putting their names forward.
The return of former hero Marcelo Bielsa, now in charge of the Uruguay national team, would placate those disappointed with Farke’s exit while the likes of Steve Cooper, Gary O’Neil and Sean Dyche all have Premier League experience that would appeal.
