Leeds United's gamble on Sam Allardyce to avoid relegation

Leeds United have replaced Javi Gracia with Sam Allardyce as they fight for Premier League survival. Is Allardyce the man to guide Leeds to safety?

Leeds United's decision to replace Javi Gracia with Sam Allardyce as their new manager may come as a surprise to some, but it is a move that demonstrates the club's desperation to avoid relegation from the Premier League.

Sitting in 17th place, out of the bottom three only on goal difference.

Leeds have endured a difficult run of form, with heavy defeats to Liverpool, Crystal Palace, and Arsenal, as well as a winless run of five matches.

📰 #LUFC can confirm Javi Gracia will leave the club, with our remaining four games overseen by experienced head coach Sam Allardyce. We thank Javi and his team for their efforts under difficult circumstances.

— Leeds United (@LUFC) May 3, 2023

Sam Allardyce's appointment brings a wealth of experience and a track record of saving clubs from relegation, having done so with Sunderland, Crystal Palace, and West Brom in the past.

His focus on defensive solidity and stopping goals from going in will be key for a Leeds side that has conceded 28 goals in their last 10 or 12 games.

Sam Allardyce's first test will be a daunting one, with league leaders Manchester City up next.

However, the timing of Gracia's dismissal after just 10 weeks in charge is a concerning sign for Leeds.

The club's director of football, Victor Orta, also left by mutual consent, indicating a disagreement with the board over Gracia's position.

Leeds United can confirm Victor Orta has left the club by mutual consent

— Leeds United (@LUFC) May 2, 2023

Leeds are now on their fourth manager this season, and their fourth in just over a year since Marcelo Bielsa departed.

The instability in the managerial position could be a contributing factor to their poor form and lack of cohesion on the pitch.

Sam Allardyce's appointment is a gamble, but it is one that Leeds United had to make if they wanted to avoid relegation.

The veteran manager will have his work cut out for him, with a difficult run of fixtures and a squad lacking in confidence.

But if anyone can guide Leeds to safety, it's Big Sam.