Sean Dyche sacked by Nottingham Forest – and here’s how it could affect Leeds
Leeds United’s relegation rivals Nottingham Forest have sacked manager Sean Dyche.
Last Friday, Leeds hosted Forest in a crunch relegation six-pointer at Elland Road, with Daniel Farke’s side comfortably coming out as 3-1 winners.
Leeds then distanced themselves from the relegation zone again when they came from 2-0 down to earn a priceless draw at Chelsea on Tuesday.
But the mood was far bleaker at City Ground on Wednesday night as Forest failed to break down Premier League basement side Wolves in a goalless draw.
Now, Forest owner Evangelos Marinakis has ousted Dyche, with his side sitting three points ahead of 18th-placed West Ham.
Leeds watch on as another Premier League manager sacked
After being well beaten by Leeds last time out, Forest had a chance to put distance between themselves and the relegation zone with the visit of Wolves.
Rob Edwards’ side are destined to get relegated this season, with the Midlands outfit currently sitting on nine points from 26 matches.
But Forest couldn’t break down the visitors and now Dyche has paid with his job.
Dyche’s position was considered untenable after the draw with Wolves.
With sections of the Forest fans turning on Dyche, with more boos at full-time on Wednesday, it did not take long for confirmation of the sack.
There is also a feeling within the Forest hierarchy that Dyche’s appointment has not had the impact they’d hoped.
Leeds may have hoped for Dyche to stay in charge at Forest
While the darkness is seemingly deepening around City Ground, spirits are lifting at Elland Road.
They are up to 15th, leapfrogging managerless Tottenham, and are showing the kind of form that will keep them in the division.
Indeed, Leeds – who are six points clear of the drop zone – have lost just twice over the past two and a bit months as the Whites’ mid-season renaissance continues.
Despite starting well at Forest, Dyche was unable to drag his team away from the relegation zone. They are being slowly caught by West Ham, who have picked up 10 points from a possible 15 of late.
Dyche staying in charge may have suited Leeds, who are still only three points ahead of Forest. As the division has shown us time and time again, teams’ fortunes can change quickly.
But Dyche ultimately run out of time to save himself, with their next league game a home clash against Liverpool on 22 February.
Leeds will just hope the latest new-manager bounce has little impact.
For more expert analysis on Leeds and their relegation fight, visit Football Insider.