Last Updated: Fri, 03 Feb 2012 12:04
Former Leeds manager Simon Grayson admitted he shed a tear after being told his services were no longer wanted at Elland Road.
Grayson, sacked on Wednesday after just over three years in charge of the club he supported as a boy, has thanked Leeds fans, players and backroom staff for their support.
The 42-year-old, released by the club as a player, told the Yorkshire Evening Post: "At the moment it's difficult to make a full statement as legalities haven't been formalised but I didn't want to wait to express my thanks to the Leeds fans who have been magnificent throughout my time at the club.
"Everyone knows how I feel about the club, there have been so many great moments throughout the three years I was the manager. I hope you realise what it meant to me to have been the manager of Leeds United.
"I had a tear in my eye when I left the club 20 years ago and I had a tear in my eye again [on Thursday]. The only difference was I went with one bin liner of stuff 20 years ago - this time it was three!
"I would like to thank all the players who have played within my three years. Also, my thanks goes to all my staff who have been helpful during my period in charge. I wish the supporters all the best for the future and maybe one day I may get the chance to come back to this great football club."
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