Leeds knife the Mac

The decision follows a run of five consecutive losses, including the shock FA Cup defeat to Histon.

Saturday's 3-1 slump at Milton Keynes Dons saw the promotion hopefuls slip to ninth in the table and was their seventh loss in eight games.

A statement on the club's official website read: "The board took the decision following the recent poor run of results that has seen the club slip to ninth in League One, 15 points behind the leaders and five points outside the play-offs.

"The decision was made to ensure that the new manager, when appointed, has the maximum number of games possible to move the club up the table and also before the transfer window opens in January to allow him to identify any new players he thinks can strengthen the current squad.

"The club would like to place on record its thanks for the loyal service given to Leeds United by Gary since joining the club as manager in January 2008 and wish him every success in the future."

McAllister took over at Elland Road in January and led the club to the League One play-off final, but lost to Doncaster Rovers at Wembley.

Poyet was reportedly in the stands alongside Whites chairman Ken Bates for Saturday's clash at stadium:mk.

I think that what they did, was right, Leeds need to be in a bigger division, and they cannot lose 5 games in a row, and be out of the FA Cup againsta team like that. Hopefully the new manager can do big things with the club.