David O’Leary’s problems at Leeds United continue to mount after a 0-0 draw with Everton that does no favours for either club.
Leeds, hoping to end a poor run of form that had seen them drop away from first the title, the Champions League race and fail to win since New Year’s day, played with a man down for 51 minutes after the dismissal of Dominic Matteo.
Matteo was sent off after 39 minutes for a second bookable offence following a needless challenge from behind on striker Kevin Campbell.
Swede Tobias Linderoth went close for Everton, who enjoyed the better chances, after the break and Leeds goalkeeper Nigel Martyn had to be alert to deny substitute David Ginola late on.
Canadian Tomasz Radzinski felt he was fouled inside the area by David Batty on the hour but referee Andy D'Urso booked the Everton forward for diving.
The point shared lifted Leeds into fifth, above Chelsea, but they are still 10 points off the Champions League qualification places after a picking up just four points from a possible 21.
Everton move into 15th in the table, level on points with Ipswich Town and Bolton Wanderers but still too close to the relegation places for comfort.
Manchester United are currently drawing 1-1 with Derby County during the second-half in today’s other Premiership match.