Hurst: Leeds Knew We Were Switching System - Ipswich Town News
Former Town boss Paul Hurst says Spygate-embroiled Leeds United knew exactly how the Blues were lining up in his final game in charge at Elland Road in October, despite setting his side out in a new formation.
Town were beaten 2-0 by the West Yorkshiremen and the manager who had only taken over at Portman Road in the summer was relieved of his duties the following day. Paul Lambert was appointed the following weekend.
Last month, Whites manager Marcelo Bielsa admitted to spying on all his side’s opponents after a club representative was spotting watching a Derby County training session.
"My last game before I got the sack was at Leeds and we played 4-4-2 for the first time in the season,” Hurst told Metro.
"When we arrived, Leeds knew we were playing 4-4-2. I can’t remember seeing anyone but he’s come out and said he has done it to every club so it makes you wonder. It’s certainly not something I would choose to take part in.”
Yesterday, the EFL announced that their investigations into Spygate will continue as a "number of areas" require "further exploration and clarification”.
Reflecting on his 149 days at Town, in which he won only once in 15 games, Hurst added: "It’s difficult for a British manager to get into the Premiership unless you get promoted and I felt the Championship was going that way. Perhaps it wasn’t the best time to get the job but I don’t regret it.
"We were criticised for not having enough experience in the team but we lost Jon Walters to injury. I tried to bring in James Collins, who [successor] Paul Lambert has now signed, but he joined Aston Villa.
"I still think some of the things we implemented will make that club better. I detest people who just turn up, take things for granted and don’t want to be better. My motto is be the best you can be. Perhaps some people didn’t buy into that.”
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