VENABLES, FERDINAND AND THE SHEEP

In an exercise guaranteed to ingratiate himself with Leeds supporters, many of whom have criticised his appointment, Venables will try to dissuade the club from selling Ferdinand to such a formidable rival, reports the Guardian.

"The whole business had been conducted like a whirlwind. I can hardly believe it has been finalised so quickly," he said. "If people are surprised, it's no more than myself. I simply didn't anticipate this. But I am excited by the thought of it, genuinely excited."

The Guardian adds that Venables appointment has left McClaren in a difficult position:

'Contrary to reports that McClaren had turned down the job, Leeds had been informed he was willing to leave Middlesbrough. The Teesside club would have been powerless to prevent his departure and a deal had been provisionally agreed until members of the Leeds plc board had second thoughts over the weekend.

Ridsdale was informed that there were reservations about McClaren's close links with Manchester United, and it was also pointed out that Venables would not cost a penny in compensation.'

Ol' piggy chops had a word of warning for his successor:

"All Terry has got to do now is win something. He's been left a top-four club with very talented young players and he needs to win some silverware. I just hope he manages to keep the players he needs."

With platitudes pouring in from ex-Leeds players and Venebales mates in the game The Guardian's Roy Collins adds a note of caution:

'Apart from brief, unsuccessful spells at Crystal Palace and Portsmouth, and an inconclusive six-month period at Middlesbrough, Terry Venables has spent the last six years preserving his reputation as a top coach by refusing every opportunity to enhance it.'