Leeds refuse to name Man Utd as they announce coach branded 'Ted Lasso' by players

Leeds went above and beyond to ignore bitter rivals Manchester United when they announced the latest addition to their backroom staff.

Jesse Marsch has decided to add further experience to his backroom staff by bringing in former teammate and fellow American Chris Armas, subject to obtaining a work permit.

The 50-year-old former USA international, who played for LA Galaxy and Chicago Fire during a 13-year career, will become Marsch's assistant manager at Elland Road.

The news comes just months after Armas spent a brief spell at Manchester United under then-interim coach Ralf Rangnick.

During his time at Old Trafford, United players 'jokingly' likened assistant Armas to fictional American coach Ted Lasso at the club's Carrington training base.

A number of United stars also thought some of the training sessions were "old fashioned", with Rangnick handing over the majority of them to assistant Armas.

But now, Leeds have moved to appoint the American and Marsch is elated with the signing.

“I’m delighted to welcome Chris to Leeds United," he told the club's official website.

“He will be a fantastic addition to the staff, he brings a wealth of experience from across the world and having worked closely with him previously, I am sure he will help us to improve every day.”

In their official statement announcing Armas, the club refused to name Manchester United as one of his former clubs.

They wrote: "Last season, Armas spent time as an assistant at another Premier League club, working under Ralf Rangnick.

"He now links up with Marsch once again in West Yorkshire and is expected to be in the dugout for Saturday’s Emirates FA Cup round four tie at Accrington Stanley."

Rangnick said he was adamant that former New York Red Bulls assistant Armas had earned the respect of the United dressing room during his short spell in Manchester.

It was suggested in a report from The Athletic that Armas' early sessions left a lot to be desired, with players feeling they were left without direction on possession work.

"He’s very helpful, not only very loyal but also very helpful and it’s very helpful he’s a native speaker," Rangnick said about assistant Armas.

"He knows how to communicate with players and he also has a high level of respect now from the players, they know that he’s a good guy and also a good expert in different areas. I’m very happy to have him on board.”