Soccer: O'Leary gets boot from Leeds United

David O'Leary has been sacked by English premier soccer league club Leeds United after four years in charge.

"I'm disappointed, but that's football," O'Leary said. "Nothing should shock you in football. I loved the job and I had great support from the fans. It's been a wonderful place to live."

O'Leary refused to comment on whether his departure had been caused by a rift with Leeds chairman Peter Ridsdale, or down to his reluctance to sell England World Cup defender Rio Ferdinand to Manchester United, who have reportedly bid £35 million ($111.21 million) for him.

Celtic manager Martin O'Neill is the hot favourite to replace O'Leary.