Ex-Leeds United manager David O'Leary has hinted that he would like to return to the Yorkshire club in the future if an opportunity arised.

The 56-year-old is renowned for taking Leeds United to the semi-finals of Champions League in the 2000/01 season, where they lost to the eventual runners-up Valencia.

O'Leary was sacked by the Elland Road outfit in 2002 after spending over £100 million on new players in just four years, and failing to acquire any trophies at the club during that time. He was subsequently replaced by Terry Venables.

Speaking to the Sky Sports show Fantasy Football Club, O'Leary confirmed his intention to one day return to the Championship club and said: "Yes, not that I am touting for a job, but I left there after qualifying for Europe.

"I was called in by Peter Risdale, he said you've established us in the top four now but we need somebody to take us to the next level.

"I might not have agreed with it but like we all work for people, that was his decision.

"Was I gutted about it, yes. I never wanted to leave. Tthe fans never drove me out, it was a very strange way. When you don't see it coming it shocks you even more."

 

The former Republic of Ireland international last managed United Arab Emirates club Al-Alhi in 2010, however he was sacked a year later after a 5-1 drubbing by Al Jazira.