Leeds United fans have taken to social media to react to former manager Thomas Christiansen’s first public statement following his departure from Elland Road earlier this month.
The Danish manager was sacked by the Whites after a poor run of form which left the club without a win since Boxing Day, with his final match a 4-1 home thrashing at the hands of Cardiff City.
Days after his exit, during which he has been swiftly replaced by ex-Barnsley boss Paul Heckingbottom, the former Apoel Nicosia manager took to his personal Twitter account to leave a heartfelt message to the supporters.
@LUFC #MOT pic.twitter.com/LGB6Sci5d7
— Thomas Christiansen (@T9Christiansen) February 9, 2018
He wrote: “I did not want to leave without saying goodbye to you, the fans.You are the most precious treasure of this wonderful club. Managers, players, directors and presidents may change but you are the ones who remain, together and united. Your passion and requirement for success just symbolizes your strength. Thank you for all your support.”
The Leeds faithful turned to social media to react to his breaking of the silence, with many crediting the Danish coach for his efforts at the club during what was just over seven months in charge.
Here, Football Insider has rounded up a selection of the supporters’ best tweets:
You gave us a cracking first few months. Some of the best football I've seen us play in years at times. It just wasn't meant to be. Good luck for the future Sir.
— Mr Geldard (@MrJGeldard) February 9, 2018
Feel sorry for the guy,came to coach a club in a country he knew little about and had Orta bring in inexperienced players at this level expecting TC to build a top six team straight away….
— johnmat64 (@spirejohn1302) February 9, 2018
All the best Thomas. You were an excellent ambassador for our club and it’s really sad to say goodbye. The very best wishes for the future.
— FionaCK (@FionaCK) February 9, 2018
Such a humble and genuine man. I hope somebody gives you a chance TC, because I honestly believe that you will become a great manager. The Leeds job was just the wrong time for you in your career. All the best for the future.
— Sophie Clayton (@Sophs_C) February 9, 2018
One of only a few managers that leave our club with respect from the fans no matter what. #MOT
— Gaz B (@GAZB_LUFC) February 9, 2018
Genuinely gutted things didn't work out for you and us at Leeds. Whatever the reasons suspensions, injuries, misjudgment I'll always respect you pal and that's not something about all managers we've had.
Good luck for the future, I'm sure you'll smash it somewhere.
MOT— Colin Carmichael (@ColinCarmichae2) February 9, 2018
Well said. Class act until the end. We wish you all the best in the future. Marching On Together.
— Lee Thompson (@lufcThommo) February 9, 2018
Wonderful words Thomas, thank you for your honest approach, hard graft and dedication. It was much appreciated. All the best to you and your family for the future
— James Marshment (@marshyleeds) February 9, 2018
Best of luck Thomas. It was an honour to have you at our special club. Wish you the best in I’m sure a very successful career. #MOT
— DAZZLER (@darsum82) February 9, 2018
Christiansen had arrived at the club back in June to replace the departing Garry Monk, who left under controversial circumstances following Andrea Radrizzani’s full takeover of the club.
He was forced to deal with a number of absences through both injury and suspension during his time at Elland Road, which included his players picking up four red cards in his five last games with the club.
In other Leeds United news, David Prutton has questioned the approach of Radrizzani in his verdict on Christiansen’s sacking.
