Javi Gracia releases statement following Leeds United sacking
Javi Gracia has spoken out after his dismissal by Leeds United following a dire run of form.
The Spanish manager was sacked following a run of seven without a win - a run which included thumping defeats to Fulham, Bournemouth and Liverpool - and replaced by Sam Allardyce until the end of the current season.
Gracia has now released an open letter to Leeds United fans, thanking them and also attempting to convince them of the good work he'd done during his short stint at Elland Road.
"I'm grateful for the opportunity and proud of the team, both players and coaching staff," he wrote. "That's how I would like to summarise my time at Leeds United. I would have preferred a different moment, but the circumstances have changed.
"We arrived on a short three-month contract. And we did it because we believed in this team. We considered our chances and had confidence. And we know it is possible. We are not talking about miracles, but the efficient result of a well done work and a process of improvement.
"The coaching staff and I took over the team in 19th position, with a run of ten games without a win. Today, after 11 games played and four games left in the league, the team is out of the relegation zone and with a good chance of achieving the objective.
"It has been a very tense period for many reasons. A busy schedule, injuries and a young but skilled team. However, we managed to position ourselves better than our rivals and this is shown by the results. Compared to our direct rivals and since we were hired, we are the team with the most points - 11 in total - compared to our main competitors. I am confident that the team will achieve its objective. It is a committed squad full of quality.
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"A special mention must be given to the coaching staff (Zigor Aranalde, Mikel Antia and Juan Solla). Also to the fantastic Michael Skubala, Willy Alonso, Marcos Abad, Jordan Davison, Matt Robertshaw, the medical staff, the kit men, the press team, and all the club staff. You help has been brilliant. Thank you from the bottom of my heart.
"And I don't want to say goodbye without thanking Victor Orta for trusting us. Honest, sincere and committed to the club. It was really a great pleasure to work with you. Both you and your team deserve the best.
"Last but not least, I would like to acknowledge the work of the fans. A fan base that supports you, that cheers you on and that I know will never give up. Best wishes for success to Leeds United."
Leeds United are set to face off against Manchester City this weekend in Allardyce's first game in charge.
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