Evans thanks fans after departure from Leeds United confirmed

The news fans have been expecting has finally been announced with Steve Evans relieved of his duties as head coach of Leeds United.
Steve Evans after his last game with Leeds United.Steve Evans after his last game with Leeds United.
Steve Evans after his last game with Leeds United.

Evans’ protracted departure was confirmed tonight with Whites owner Massimo Cellino saying he wanted the club to go in a different direction to the Scot.

Cellino has kept Evans hanging since the end of the season when talks between the pair ended with no decision, publicly, on the Scotsman’s future. Since then talks have taken place with possible replacements for Evans while he remained head coach for the time being.

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Evans stayed patient before publicly calling for clarity and now he has it with his 225-day tenure ended in a statement from Cellino on the club’s website that said:

“Steve completed the job he was brought in to carry out - to keep the team in the Championship - and his hard work here has been greatly appreciated.

“I wish him and (assistant) Paul Raynor the very best for the future.

“We have, however, decided that a different approach is required in order to achieve our targets for the new season.

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“The club is now looking to appoint a new head coach to build on the good work of Steve and Paul and deliver the special season which our supporters deserve.”

Evans said: “It is with great sadness that I have learned today that my contract at Leeds United for next season will not be renewed. It was an honour to serve such an iconic football club.

“It perhaps became obvious to everyone in football that the decision not to renew my contract had been made many weeks ago, but at all times I have kept my dignity as a matter of respect for the history and tradition of this football club and especially those fantastic supporters.

“Every objective I was set on my arrival was met and surpassed. My career will now move on to new pastures and I am very proud to have been part of something that is so really special.

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“I will never forget the reception I received from the supporters on my last match at Preston North End, those supporters are very special indeed.

“I wish the team every success next season, the club deserves to be in the Premier League, there lays the challenge.”

Evans’ departure comes on a day when former Swansea manager Garry Monk became the latest to head the betting to be in charge at Elland Road next season.