NEIL Redfearn has opted to return to his former role as the head of Leeds' academy after being overlooked for the head coach's role.

The 49-year-old guided Leeds to Championship safety last season but despite that came in for a barrage of criticism from owner Massimo Cellino.

The Italian branded Redfearn "weak" and called him a "baby" in a newspaper interview, and then opted to appoint Uwe Rosler and not Redfearn as the club's boss, despite the 49-year-old's success.

Even though executive director Adam Pearson said Redfearn's old position in charge of the academy was open to him, it appeared highly unlikely he would accept it owing to Cellino's comments about him.

But in a surprise move, Redfearn stated he would be going back to his former job on July 1.

"My contract had said that if I wasn't offered the (head) coaching job, then I will go back to being the academy manager," he said.

"That is what will be happening and I will go back on the first of July, as it stands at the moment.

"I have had a bit of interest from other people, but to be honest, I am a fair way into this now (academy role)."

United are set to announce their second signing of the summer this afternoon, with Motherwell striker Lee Erwin likely to be unveiled at Elland Road a day after American goalkeeper Charlie Horton signed from Cardiff.