Leeds name ex-Watford boss Javi Gracia as manager

Feb 21 (Reuters) – Leeds United have agreed terms to appoint former Valencia and Watford head coach Javi Gracia as their new manager on a ‘flexible contract’ to replace Jesse Marsch, the Premier League club said on Tuesday.

Marsch was sacked on Feb. 6 after a poor run of form left the club in a relegation battle. Leeds are 19th in the standings with 19 points from 23 games and face bottom club Southampton on Saturday.

“Leeds United are delighted to announce the club have agreed terms with Javi Gracia to become men’s first team head coach, subject to obtaining a work permit,” a club statement read.

Reporting by Hritika Sharma in Bengaluru; Editing by Jon Boyle

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