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Leeds news: Paul Heckingbottom reveals what convinced him to quit Barnsley for Whites
LEEDS UNITED’s new head coach Paul Heckingbottom has revealed discussions with the club’s chiefs convinced him to quit Barnsley for Elland Road.
Barnsley's Paul Heckingbottom reflects on time at club
Heckingbottom held talks with Leeds owner Andrea Radrizzani and director of football Victor Orta after they triggered a £500,000 release clause in the contract he signed with Barnsley last Friday.
The 40-year-old’s appointment as Thomas Christiansen’s successor on an 18-month deal was confirmed earlier today.
“I can’t wait to get started,” Heckingbottom said.
“It’s a big opportunity at a big football club, something that you work hard for so want to make the most of it.
“What appeals to me is the size of the club.
“When I spoke to Victor and the owners it really aligned with what I was thinking and how I want to work and I assume that’s the reason why they thought I was the right man for the job.
“Hopefully that will be good going forwards.
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Leeds United head coach Paul Heckingbottom is excited by the club's vision
Paul Heckingbottom was convinced following talks with Leeds United owner Andrea Radrizzani
When I spoke to Victor and the owners it really aligned
“I’m going to meet the players now.
“It’s been a long day for them as well so I won’t keep them too long but we’ll get out on the grass as that’s important because there’s some really big fixtures coming up, some that will define the season.”
Heckingbottom’s first game in charge of Leeds will be Saturday’s Championship clash against fellow play-off hopefuls Sheffield United at Bramall Lane.
Garry Monk is the favourite to succeed Paul Heckingbottom at Barnsley
Leeds are without a win in six league games and have slipped to 10th in the table.
Meanwhile, former Leeds boss Garry Monk has emerged as the favourite to succeed Heckingbottom at Barnsley.
Under-23 coach Paul Harsley and Lincoln City boss Danny Cowley are also well-fancied by the bookies.
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