Michael Skubala probably didn’t expect to find himself in such a situation at Leeds United, as he prepares to take charge of his second match in charge of the first team.
Along with Chris Armas and Paco Gallardo, he will be in the Whites' dugout against Manchester United while the club’s hierarchy looks to appoint Jesse Marsch’s successor.
The Under-21s boss might not be entirely comfortable being placed into such a high-profile role, but supporters will be hoping he can provide a reaction as Man United head to Elland Road on Sunday.
Here's what you need to know about the man in caretaker charge of Leeds United.
Who is Michael Skubala?
Skubala was brought to Elland Road in summer to take charge of the club’s U21s following the decision to promote Mark Jackson, who left in December to coach MK Dons, to the first-team. He had spent several years within the national set-up, coaching England’s national futsal side, while also providing a helping hand with a number of the Three Lions’ age groups.
Before then Skubala worked with Loughborough University and within the academy set-ups at Nottingham Forest and Coventry City. He’s a qualified secondary school teacher and he’s used to being challenged as he continues his rise through the coaching ranks.
Most recently supporters may have spotted him in Leeds’ first-team dugout after being called into the senior ranks to fill in as a first-team coach prior to Armas’ arrival in West Yorkshire.
He then took charge of the 2-2 draw with Manchester United on Wednesday night and is at the helm for the game at Elland Road.
What’s he done with Leeds United U21s?
Well, for the most part, he’s enjoyed success. Before the New Year, the Whites were unbeaten in the league, winning eight of their first nine games, and they were sitting comfortably on top of the Premier League 2 Division 2 table.
Unfortunately, results have taken a turn over the last month, with Skubala being forced to play weakened sides due to injuries and the first-team commitments of those deemed to be on the cusp of a breakthrough. But, with eight games to go, the Whites are well-placed to kick on and secure promotion back to the top flight at the first time of asking.
On an individual level, Skubala has brought the best out several players such as Mateo Joseph and Sonny Perkins, with Joseph in particular developing into a leader on the field under his stewardship. The likes of Charlie Allen, Kris Moore and Darko Gyabi have also thrived, while Skubala was also trusted by Marsch to continue challenging Cody Drameh, before his loan move to Luton Town.
What can Leeds United fans expect?
Skubala is a cool, calm, likable presence on the touchline and in front of the press. While he is no way experienced at coaching in the Premier League, he has spent time around the Whites’ first-team and he will have developed a fair amount of knowledge regarding individuals within it.
Changes aren’t likely to be too drastic at Old Trafford, with the Under-21s generally playing in a 4-2-3-1 formation with a style that has been aligned somewhat with the first-team. He likes to see his side press from the front, set traps and ‘close the net’, as he can be heard shouting from the touchline, out of possession.
On the ball, the youth side have played free-flowing attacking football, scoring 36 goals in 12 league games, with overlapping full-backs regularly providing width while Perkins and Joseph have made a habit of terrorising backlines.
Skubala, Armas and Gallardo won’t be in charge of the Whites for long, with Leeds pushing to make a quick appointment over the coming days. However, the board will be confident that United are in safe hands for the time being.
