Leeds United are still searching for their next permanent manager to lead the side to Premier League survival this season and now a major update has emerged from a reliable source on the club’s immediate plans.
What is the latest news on Leeds’ manager search?
According to The Athletic’s ever-reliable Phil Hay, the club have confirmed that Michael Skubala will remain in charge for the foreseeable future.
Hay tweeted:
“Leeds United confirm that Michael Skubala, Paco Gallardo and Chris Armas are to remain in charge of the first team, starting with Everton away. Not announced as to the end of the season at this stage – but for “forthcoming fixtures”.”
How will Skubala impact Patrick Bamford?
There is no doubt that the decision to stick with Skubala is the right decision considering there are just a few days to go until Leeds face one of their biggest rivals for relegation this season, with a trip to Goodison Park scheduled this Saturday.
The 40-year-old caretaker has proved he is capable of getting a good performance out of the struggling side with a 2-2 draw taken from Old Trafford when they met Manchester United last week.
However, the news of Skubala’s extended stay at Elland Road may not be the best decision for everyone involved as Patrick Bamford should be worried about his short-term future in the team following his poor displays so far this season.
Over 15 Premier League appearances, the 29-year-old striker has scored just one goal and delivered two assists so far, as well as averaging 0.7 shots on target, 15.8 touches and 6.2 accurate passes per game, proving that he has had a limited presence on the pitch which has been a contributor to Leeds’ ability to kill off games.
Since Skubala took over from Jesse Marsch, Bamford hasn’t shown any signs of improvement with the interim manager hooking the Leeds stalwart in both clashes with the Red Devils due to his frustrating form in front of goal.
He was taken off the pitch in the 63rd minute at Old Trafford and even sooner at Elland Road when he was replaced in the 53rd.
The former youth team coach could now boldly ditch Bamford for the crucial visit to Merseyside this weekend by giving newly-signed Georginio Rutter his first start for the west Yorkshire club and if the decision pays off it could put Skubala in firm contention to continue his tenure over, at least, the remainder of the season.