Leeds United Assistant Coach Suspended
Leeds have suspended assistant manager Steve Thompson over an "nternal matter".
The 50-year-old, who joined head coach Neil Redfearn's backroom staff from Huddersfield in December, has been stood down from his duties by director of football Nicola Salerno.
A club statement read: “The director of football Nicola Salerno, has today (April 2) suspended the assistant coach Steve Thompson from his duties at the club.
"This is an internal matter and the club will make no further comment on this internal issue.”
Thompson, who has been caretaker manager at Blackpool on several occasions, has been widely regarded as one of the main reasons behind United's dramatic improvement in the second half of the season where they have won eight of their last 13 games and established themselves in mid-table.
But Neil Redfearn, Leeds' third permanent head coach of the season, expressed his disappointment at the decision:
"It is undermining because we are trying to put something together under the guise that you are getting the backing you need. It's disappointing.
"Steve understands the game and the division and the players have taken to him. The results have been there for everyone to see.
"I love this club and I've loved working with the players. Me and Steve have worked together well."
"I’ve got to have a good think now.”
Redfearn also said Thompson's suspension could destabilise the team.
"I don't think it helps because Steve is part of the team and part of what we have been doing," he added.
"If you want to deflate something then you take things away from that team. I've got to make sure for the players and the supporters' sake that the lads will be as professional and focused as they have been all season."
Leeds, who face Blackburn Rovers at home on Saturday, are currently 13th in the Championship and have won 10 of their 26 games under Neil Redfearn.