Steve Evans takes charge of Leeds

Steve Evans has become the latest manager through the door at Leeds United following the surprise sacking of Uwe Rosler who will feel that the results did not match the level of performances that his team put in for the cause. The former Rotherham United manager was appointed just two days before Leeds’ trip to Fulham, and has become the club’s sixth manager in the eighteen month period that Massimo Cellino has overseen as owner. Evans has already admitted that he would not have been the first name on the fans’ list of managers to replace Rosler, but the 52-year-old not only has the opportunity to prove himself at one of the biggest clubs in England, but also restore the passion and fighting spirit that has been forever dwindling amidst the considerable turmoil created by Cellino.

Evans is known to be an outspoken and controversial figure in the world of football, particularly after the part he played in the tax evasion scandal while in charge of Boston United back in 2006. His fiery temperament may actually turn out to be a characteristic that works for him at Leeds, with the players, and the club as a whole, desperately in need of the fire back in their bellies. All their passionate fanbase ask for is a team that play with pride, commitment and passion when they put on the famous white shirt; the latter is a word that Evans used frequently during his pre and post-match interview in the Fulham game, and is an indication that he knows the size of the task that lies ahead of him.

The 1-1 draw in Evans’ first game in charge at Craven Cottage may not have been the best result for two teams struggling at the wrong end of the Championship table, but it was a much improved performance from Leeds who were denied victory by an inspired performance from Fulham goalkeeper Joe Lewis who made a string of outstanding saves. Chris Wood redeemed himself from the penalty spot after missing a number of glorious opportunities in their defeat to league leaders Brighton which proved to be Rosler’s last game in charge, but it was an encouraging start to life at Leeds for Evans considering that he only had two days to prepare his team. The result, but more importantly the performance, should provide confidence ahead of a potentially crucial trip to Bolton which may be worth a quick mobile bet at Betway.com on an away win, and with Neil Lennon’s side sitting rock bottom and devoid of any confidence or form, then the fixture presents itself as a good opportunity for three points.

It remains to be seen just how long Evans remains in the hotseat, given the itchy trigger finger that Cellino is renowned for, but while he may as well joke that his contract is for just a few days, the current plight at Leeds United is nothing to laugh about. Evans should be given time at Elland Road to convince everyone that he is the right man for the job, and although certain sections of fans have serious reservations over his appointment, they will undoubtedly get behind the team and their new manager as they look for stability and pride to return to their club.