Leeds United: Dave Hockaday upbeat despite Cellino U-turn

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Dave Hockaday and Massimo CellinoImage source, Empics
Image caption,

Massimo Cellino (right) appointed Dave Hockaday as Brian McDermott's successor in June

Leeds United head coach Dave Hockaday insists he did not fear for his job at the weekend, despite owner Massimo Cellino's U-turn over his position.

Cellino said he had been set to fire Hockaday after Saturday's 4-1 defeat at Watford only to change his mind.

"I had a two-hour conversation with the president on Sunday and we spoke about players needed and everything else," Hockaday told BBC Radio Leeds.

"I didn't think I needed to justify anything or defend myself."

Saturday's defeat at Vicarage Road means Hockaday has lost three of his five matches since taking over from Brian McDermott in June.

"I am here and I love my job but there is a lot of work to be done," added Hockaday.

Dave Hockaday's results at Leeds

Competition

Result

Date

Championship

Millwall 2-0 Leeds

Sat 9 Aug

League Cup - first round

Leeds 2-1 Accrington

Tue 12 Aug

Championship

Leeds 1-0 Middlesbrough

Sat 16 Aug

Championship

Leeds 0-2 Brighton

Tue 19 Aug

Championship

Watford 4-1 Leeds

Sat 23 Aug

"I believe I am a good coach and I am getting the best out of this group of players.

"My remit is to coach the players, pick the team and win as many matches as we can."

Leeds have brought 12 players to the club this summer, but the former Forest Green Rovers boss believes they still need to add to their squad before the transfer window closes next Monday.

"Our goal threat at the moment is not great enough and we have injuries too," he said.

"The majority of goals that we have conceded have been from set plays so we need to strengthen in that area.

"You are always looking to get better players in because once you stand still in this game, that's it."

The Elland Road side travel to local rivals Bradford City in the League Cup on Wednesday before hosting Bolton Wanderers on Saturday.

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