Ken Bates: Simon Grayson feud began over midfielder

Leeds chairman Ken Bates has revealed that the future of Simon Grayson "came to a head" when the former manager wanted to sign another midfielder.

Grayson was dismissed earlier this month after a heavy defeat to Birmingham and Bates has now outlined one of the main reasons for the sacking.

"It came to a head when Simon wanted to sign a midfielder which would have cost the club nearly £1.5million over the length of his proposed contract," wrote Bates in his programme notes for Saturday's 2-1 home defeat to Brighton & Hove Albion.

"We already have nine midfielder players, so I refused - the first time ever!

"In the circumstances it was decided to part company with Simon and his staff immediately following the Birmingham result."

The club are yet to find a replacement, with Neil Redfearn taking temporary charge of the Yorkshire outfit.