Michael Skubala not looking beyond Man Utd clash as Leeds hunt for new manager
The club’s Under-21s coach was put in caretaker charge following the dismissal of Jesse Marsch on Monday.
Your support helps us to tell the story
From reproductive rights to climate change to Big Tech, The Independent is on the ground when the story is developing. Whether it's investigating the financials of Elon Musk's pro-Trump PAC or producing our latest documentary, 'The A Word', which shines a light on the American women fighting for reproductive rights, we know how important it is to parse out the facts from the messaging.
At such a critical moment in US history, we need reporters on the ground. Your donation allows us to keep sending journalists to speak to both sides of the story.
The Independent is trusted by Americans across the entire political spectrum. And unlike many other quality news outlets, we choose not to lock Americans out of our reporting and analysis with paywalls. We believe quality journalism should be available to everyone, paid for by those who can afford it.
Your support makes all the difference.Leeds caretaker boss Michael Skubala has no plans in place to remain in charge beyond Sunday’s home clash with Manchester United.
The Yorkshire club had been hoping to announce a replacement this week for Jesse Marsch, who was sacked on Monday after failing to steer them clear of relegation danger.
Leeds Under-21s boss Skubala took charge of Wednesday night’s 2-2 draw at Old Trafford and will be in the dugout again for the Roses rivals’ second Premier League meeting in the space of five days.
When asked if he had given any thought to staying in the role longer, Skubala said: “No, I’m not planning for anything other than day-to-day communication with (director of football) Victor (Orta).
“I’m in communication with the board on a day-to-day basis. I’m just doing the best I can do in the short term.”
It is understood Leeds drew up an initial four-man shortlist, but two possible contenders to fill the vacancy at Elland Road were this week ruled out of the running.
West Brom’s Carlos Corberan has signed a new contract at The Hawthorns and Feyenoord’s Arne Slot announced he will be staying with the high-flying Dutch club.
A third candidate, former River Plate boss Marcelo Gallardo, has turned down an approach according to reports in Argentina, while it has also been reported a move for Andoni Iraola has been blocked by his club Rayo Vallecano.
Skubala said he was focused solely on Sunday’s encounter as Leeds bid for their first league win since November 5 and their first league win against arch rivals Manchester United in over 20 years.
He said: “Probably the biggest challenge for a head coach in these moments is to think about probably what the other head coach is going to do.
“It’s a bit like a game of chess, I think, especially playing back-to-back games.
“That’s where I have to be calm and I have to be strong in my decisions to believe in what we can do as a team and focus on our strengths to go and impact this game.”
Leeds let slip a 2-0 lead on Wednesday night as Marcus Rashford’s header and substitute Jadon Sancho’s effort cancelled out Willy Gnonto’s brilliant finish inside the opening 60 seconds and Raphael Varane’s own goal.
Skubala added: “I said we were excited about going to Old Trafford and playing against Manchester United and the players are really excited to go into Elland Road and go against Manchester United again.
“It’s an opportunity for three points and they should be excited by the moment. I know that the fans will get behind the team and push the team. Everyone will be excited about the game.”