Sacked Leeds manager David O'Leary says he has a good idea who will take over from him at Elland Road - but will not reveal who it is.

Leeds dismissed O'Leary on Thursday, citing off-the-field factors as one of the reasons, after initially claiming O'Leary had left by mutual consent.

"I think I know who has got the job," O'Leary said outside his Harrogate home after learning his fate.

"That is already all in place and I wish him well."

The leading contenders include Ireland boss Mick McCarthy and Celtic manager Martin O'Neill, with South Korea boss Guus Hiddink also possibly in the frame.

O'Leary had been in charge at Elland Road for nearly four years, running up a deficit of �67m as he sought to bring trophies to Elland Road.

But the need to generate funds led to widespread speculation that England defender Rio Ferdinand would be sold to Manchester United for �30m - something O'Leary was clearly unhappy about.

Asked twice whether his departure had anything to do with Ferdinand's future, O'Leary smiled, before declining to answer the question.

But he did add his dismissal had nothing to do with the newspaper serialisation and subsequent publication of his book, 'Leeds United on Trial.'

"Nothing should shock you in football," he added.

"l loved the job here, the supporters have been great and people have been very good to me.

"I love living here as do my family. I wish the club well and I wish them every success in the future.

"I tried to give it my best shot. Under the circumstances - off the field - I think I've done a good job and tried to raise the image of the club.

"That �60m is worth a lot more now."