Adam Pearson: Leeds United executive director leaves club

Whether or not Cellino will change his mind and look for a replacement in the near future is something that only he can decide – there’s no doubt that Leeds fans will be calling for Pearson’s replacement sooner rather than later.

Leeds legend Eddie Gray defended Cellino on LUTV when it was suggested there may have been a difference of opinion between the owner and Pearson, commenting: “If you’ve got somebody running the football club and putting his money into the club, he’ll do as he sees fit.”

Adam Pearson has stunned Leeds by quitting as Massimo Cellino’s right-hand man after just four months.

It’s believed that the Italian will now “double his workload” behind the scenes.

Leeds manager Uwe Rosler said he was “devastated” to learn Pearson had left. “Nobody saw it coming”.

“I have really enjoyed my time at Leeds United and would like to thank everybody, the staff and supporters, that have made me feel so welcome”.

“The only thing I can say is that the working relationship between Adam and myself and Adam and Mr Cellino had been very good”.

The 50-year-old Pearson has also been involved in the past with Hull City, Sheffield Wednesday and Derby but insists his priority is now the rugby league club.

But last night, following Leeds’ 1-0 home defeat to Ipswich Town, it emerged Pearson is leaving to focus on his other business interests. “I hope to see him again some day”. He will always have my support.

“It saddens me that he is stepping away to focus on other personal and business interests, but he knows that he is welcome back at the club if he feels ready”.