Leeds United coach Evans to Cellino: Front up and fire me

Evans finally lost patience with the speculation surrounding his job by saying it was “very obvious the time has arrived for Mr Cellino to tell me I’m not his head coach for next season.”

The comments came after Cellino gave another hint that Evans’s time at United was at an end after 38 games in charge.

Speaking to the Mirror, Cellino said he had “a lot of good managers” queuing up for the head coach’s role, despite the rapid turnover of coaches under him.

Leeds moved on Monday to approach Bristol Rovers’ Clarke, the 38-year-old who led the club to promotion from League Two this season, and they are in the process of negotiating compensation with Rovers’ board.

Evans, who is still employed by Leeds and has a contract to June 30, said: “After lots of press calls and a further meeting with my advisors it is very obvious the time has arrived for Mr Cellino to tell me I am not his head coach for next season.

“Out of respect for this great football club’s history, and to the Leeds United supporters, I’ll take that decision with good grace.

“The task is huge next season. The Championship is stronger than the one about to conclude at Wembley (with the play-off final) on Saturday.

“In my opinion for the team to be successful next season the squad needs significantly strengthened in many key departments - this alongside ensuring our brightest young talents are secured for some years.

“I now need to accept that I open my mind up to other options for my career. Obviously I now need to know the direction of my career. In summary, I just need closure.”