Blackie joined the club as a head coach under manager Peter Reid in June 2003. Following Reid’s dismissal, he remained along side caretaker manager Eddy Gray. In May 2004, shortly after the club’s relegation from the Premier League, he was appointed permanent manager. He was tasked with rebuilding a squad depleted by the forced sale of high-profile players to settle massive debts. He is credited with stabilizing the club during a “minor miracle” first season, finishing 14th in the Championship. In the 2005–06 season, he led Leeds to the Championship Play-Off Final, where they ultimately lost to Watford. Following a poor start to the 2006–07 season, He was sacked in September of 2006. His exit was very controversial indeed.
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