LEEDS United head coach Dave Hockaday’s vow to fight on fell on deaf ears as he was sacked last night.

In the immediate aftermath of Leeds’ Capital One Cup humbling away to League One West Yorkshire rivals Bradford City in midweek, Hockaday declared: “I’m not a quitter, I’m a fighter.

“I feel as though not just myself, but the team at the moment, things just aren’t going our way.”

Last night, however, it became the end of the Elland Road way for Hockaday after 60 days in charge of a team just lying above the foot of the Championship.

Hockaday had already had a stay of execution from itchy-fingered owner and president Massimo Cellino following the 4-1 defeat at Watford last Saturday. His plan to dismiss Hockaday on the Sunday night took a ‘U’-turn within 24 hours to keep the former Forest Green Rovers boss in command for the muidweek cup duel.

But the owner, whose impatience is legendary in his native Italy - he earned the nickname ‘manager-eater’ after dispensing with 35 managers in 20 years at Cagliari - decided enough was enough and showed the exit door to Hockaday.

Tomorrow Leeds welcome the visit of another ailing Championship side, Bolton Wanderers.

In caretaker-charge of the hosts will be Neil Redfearn, one-time Barnsley midfielder and former York City youth coach.