Former Real Madrid Boss Queiroz Makes it Two-Horse Race for Leeds United Job

Former Real Madrid boss and Sir Alex Ferguson's former assistant at Manchester United, Carlos Queiroz, has emerged as the frontrunner to succeed David Hockaday as Leeds United manager ahead of caretaker manager Neil Redfearn, according to reports.

Leeds sacked David Hockaday last week after losing four of his opening six matches in charge, having only taken the job on 19 June.

Some reports has since claimed club owner Masimo Cellino had ex-Brighton and Hove Albion manager Oscar Garcia as his first choice but, once the Spaniard opted instead to join Watford, were forced to look elsewhere.

Former West Bromwich manager Steve Clarke and ex-Watford boss Giuseppe Sannino have being also linked with the vacant with the Mirror claiming that Cellino is considering Queiroz.

The 61-year-old Portuguese boss, who worked at Old Trafford alongside Sir Alex for five years in two different spells, is currently available after leading Iran to the World Cup finals in Brazil.

Queiroz has also managed Portugal and South Africa but struggled during a brief period with the Real Madrid 'Galacticos' in 2003-2004, getting sacked ten months after taking the job.

The Mirror understands that after Steve Clarke had ruled out himself of the role, Queiroz emerged as the frontrunner to replace Hockaday ahead of current caretaker Neil Redfearn.

Nevertheless, the Leeds' academy side's manager is said to have impressed Cellino after leading his side to a 1-0 victory over Bolton at the weekend.

The Mirror quoted one club source saying: "Neil is really rated by the owner, who considers him a much more talented coach than some of those who have put themselves in for the job. Neil is a serious candidate."