BREAKING NEWS;Leeds United confirm the return of former player-Ross McCormack

Ross McCormack has opened up on the circumstances surrounding his controversial Leeds United departure. The Whites cashed in on the talismanic forward in the summer of 2014, selling McCormack to Fulham in an £11m deal.

But the Scotland international, who notched 58 goals and 31 assists in 157 matches for United, has claimed the club had to sell him to avoid “serious” financial trouble. Speaking to Open Goal, McCormack said: “If I didn’t leave, the club would have been in serious danger.

“They sacked kitchen staff, people had packed lunches, staff wasn’t getting paid, players weren’t getting paid, no dough.

“They had absolutely no money. It was that bad that they were protecting their assets. When I came in the first day of pre-season, you know, you walk out in your trainers, you carry your boots.

“Dave Hockaday (the manager), he said you won’t need them, the owner (Massimo Cellino) said you’re not allowed to train. He wanted to make sure I didn’t get injured. When I left, he said I refused to train. Just trying to cover their back.”

McCormack maintained his stellar form in West London, scoring 42 times in 100 outings. He also racked up an impressive 22 assists.

McCormack spent two years at Fulham before being snapped up by Aston Villa. He initially featured under boss Steve Bruce but quickly fell out of favour.